February 13, 2025
This year, we are thrilled to present one of the Chamber’s 2024 Community Betterment Awards to an organization whose tireless work has touched the lives of so many – both two-legged and four-legged. This organization has achieved remarkable things this past year. They haven’t just met the needs of our animal population; they’ve gone above and beyond, creating programs and initiatives that strengthen the bonds between pets and their people, and enhance our community as a whole.
Elise Blue accepts Northeast Missouri Humane Society’s Community Betterment award from Chamber Board Member, Justin Gibson.
Last year, they achieved something truly extraordinary: no-kill status! This incredible milestone is a testament to their dedication, ensuring that every adoptable animal has a chance at a forever home. This alone is a monumental achievement, reflecting the tireless work of staff, volunteers, and generous supporters.
But their work doesn’t stop there:
- Through their SNAP (Spay/Neuter Assistance) program, they’ve provided more than 350 spay/neuter surgeries, contributing to a healthier pet population and reducing unwanted litters.
- Their TNVR (Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return) initiative has returned more than 100 spayed or neutered strays to the community, a strategy proven to control the population of feral cats in communities.
- They’ve reunited more than 200 lost pets with their families.
- Their free vaccine clinic, serving more than 700 pets, has been crucial in protecting animal and public health.
Beyond these vital services, this organization understands that caring for animals often means supporting the people who love them. Their donation of over 5,000 pounds of pet food is a powerful example of their commitment to the entire community, ensuring that even in challenging times, pets have access to nutritious meals. In addition, their staff has completed extensive training on working with shelter animals, to socialize them and enrich their shelter experience, increasing the odds they will not only be adopted, but successfully acclimate to their new home.
And finally, in 2024, they completed a special addition: Lucky’s Lane Walking Path. This beautiful new space provides a safe and enjoyable place for volunteers to walk dogs, and for pet owners to connect with their companions, strengthening the human-animal bond. The walking path also features the Pet Memorial Rainbow Bridge, which was designed, built and donated by Madi’s Kindness Projects as a way for members of the community to memorialize their companions who have crossed the rainbow bridge.
The Northeast Missouri Humane Society, your passion, dedication, and tireless efforts are a shining example of what community betterment truly means. You haven’t just built a shelter; you’ve built a community of compassion and care. Your work has made a lasting, positive impact on our region, and we are honored to present you with the Community Betterment Award. Congratulations!
