Shelter’s Edge

You’ve met the contenders in the West and the South over the past few weeks. Now we’re getting to know the agencies in the North Central Division who will be competing to save the most animals’ lives in the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge.

Ashtabula County Animal Protective League, Ashtabula, OH

Gotta love an agency with a sense of humor! This one's from the “Bloopers” photo album on their Facebook page.

What makes them a tough contender: “The ability to stay in the fight! We have done so much for our animals with such minimal resources. Fighting the good fight of being the voice for the animals is something we take pride in, and make top priority!”

Bay Area Humane Society, Green Bay, WI

BAHS' office cat, Sleepy

How they describe their innovative agency in 3 words: “Pushing the envelope!”

City of Bloomington Animal Care & Control, Bloomington, IN

Baked by a supporter in celebration of the agency's great showing during the Qualifying Heat

Why they’re a force to contend with: “We are fortunate to have a positive image in our community, strong community support, a dedicated staff and wonderful volunteers who will be excited to join us in this challenge to save more lives.”

Friends For the Dearborn Animal Shelter, Dearborn, MI

Spokesdog Pudge did whatever it took to wrangle votes during the Qualifying Heat.

What they love to tell their community: “Recycled pets are best.”

Heartland SPCA, Merriam, KS

Heartland SPCA adopter conferring with his new kitty.

What makes them a tough contender: “We believe that no matter what their size, shape or story, all dogs and cats deserve the chance to live long, happy and healthy lives, and our team of experts works hard every day as a lifeline to a better future for pets by providing comprehensive, affordable medical care, adoption services and innovative community programs.”

Humane Society of Greater Dayton, Dayton, OH

HSGD volunteers and staff after finishing the second shift of their recent 24-hour spay/neuter event

How they describe themselves in 3 words: “Proactive, Compassionate Leadership”

Kent County Animal Shelter, Grand Rapids, MI

KCAS staff and volunteers hard at work!

What they want their community to know: “Practice responsible pet ownership, spay and neuter, leash and license your dog and have your pets examined by a veterinarian regularly.”

Medina County SPCA, Medina, OH

Love the smart use of graphics to accompany each menu item on Medina's website

What makes them a tough contender: “We may be mini, but we’re MIGHTY!”

SICSA, Kettering, OH

Clap clap clap for this phenom Facebook cover photo!

How they’d use $100K: “SICSA would train volunteers and staff to supervise and grow off-site adoptions, supply funds for emergency veterinary care to pets at risk for euthanasia and provide low-cost microchip identification to the public to increase the number of pets returned to their owners.”

Toledo Area Humane Society, Maumee, OH

How they describe themselves in 3 words: "Respected, Compassionate, Responsible"

“TAHS is committed to promoting a healthy bond between animals and their human companions by providing temporary shelter and care for animals seeking permanent homes, advocating for animals and educating the community regarding animal issues and responsible care/training.”

Winnebago County Animal Services, Rockford, IL

Holy Engagement! WCAS got a great response when they asked Facebook fans to vote for the name of their new Senior Adoption program. (Psst, we like "Golden Whiskers.")

What makes them a tough contender: “Winnebago County Animal Services is striving to be a community leader and credible resource for the awareness and advancement of responsible pet ownership, adoption and animal health and welfare.”

Be sure to check in next week, when we highlight the contestants from the Northeast.

Related links:
The 50 Challenge Contestants
“Up for the Challenge, Part 3: Meet the 2012 Contestants”

Tags: $100K Challenge

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