History

For over 80 years, what began as the Hammond Humane Society in 1941 has grown into an organization with three separate and distinct responsibilities and one mission, remaining steadfast to our founder’s intentions. We annually support over 4,000 dogs and cats, and this past year, almost 3,000 injured/orphaned wildlife from 26 counties in Indiana.

A small but determined group of women led by Evelyn Sweitzer began a shelter in a simple 3-car garage on Columbia Avenue. They were strong and vocal advocates for the humane treatment of animals and began placing shelter pets in friendly homes.

Today in its place, a “state-of-the-art” animal shelter thrives in Munster. In early 2010, the facility was augmented with the addition of a low-cost spay-neuter clinic, both made possible by the vision and generosity of Estelle Marcus.

In 2015 Humane Indiana expanded yet again. We acquired the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Valparaiso from Judith Cieslak and Jean Prebis, two women passionate about saving wildlife and bringing education to the masses. The work that began as an idea in the hearts of two women and other local wildlife enthusiasts has grown into an exceptional place with extraordinary outcomes. Today, the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center preserves and protects native wildlife all over Indiana.

Over the past 80 years, the changes to our organization have been substantial, but our commitment to animal care and the owner experience remains the same. We’re here to help adoptive families make good choices for their new pets, assist families with keeping their pets in their homes, and provide a location for injured and orphaned wildlife to receive needed care. Our values have not changed, and it’s why we are still around to serve new generations. Humane Indiana’s success is due to our team of dedicated staff, passionate volunteers, and generous donors.

All of our adopters become a part of our forever family. We meet new clients all the time which a friend or family member referred because of their great experience now and years ago. We ensure our clients receive the best, from pet introduction to a lifetime of assistance, so the adoption remains successful.

If you have supported Humane Indiana in any way today, yesterday, or thirty years ago, we thank you. With you and your referrals, donations, and trust, we can serve NWI with our incredible mission. Thank you for believing in us!