THE EXTRAORDINARY WILDLIFE REHABILITATION AND EDUCATION CENTER

When Jean Prebis and Judith Cieslak planted an avocado seed on the balcony of their patio in Chicago decades ago, no one could have foreseen what would grow out of their efforts. They eventually moved to a remote piece of property in Valparaiso, Indiana to nurture their love of animals and nature. With Humane Indiana’s acquisition of their beautiful property in 2014, what began as an idea in the hearts of two women and local wildlife enthusiasts has developed into an exceptional place with extraordinary outcomes.

Today, the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center preserves and protects native wildlife from 26 Indiana counties and still counting! A 3-year strategic plan was created under the guidance of Humane Indiana’s Strategic Planning Committee who met in 2020. The planning was funded by a generous donor who wishes to see the continued expansion of our programs and services.

While this strategic plan is focused on the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center, it includes administrative goals that involve Humane Indiana, without which this initiative would not exist. To that end, the strategic plan is grounded in the vision, mission, and values of Humane Indiana.

Located in Valparaiso, Indiana, Humane Indiana’s Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center, is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization founded in 1997. Formerly known as Moraine Ridge Wildlife, led by community leaders including Jean Prebis and Judith Cieslak.

OUR VISION

To be the leader in the humane treatment of domestic and wild animals.

OUR MISSION

Serving both domestic and wild animals, Humane Indiana provides exceptional animal care, educational programs, and community outreach.

OUR VALUES

Compassionate Care

We deliver exceptional care with compassion to each animal we serve.

Transparency

We share our financial and programmatic information with our stakeholders and the public.

Innovation

We are a learning organization and continually seek out new ideas to best serve animals and our community.

Collaboration

We strive to be a valuable local, regional, and global partner.

Inclusivity

We commit to diversity of thought and background of our staff, volunteers, and community partners.

Stewardship

We are responsible stewards of our land, property, and financial resources.

REHABILITATING WILDLIFE IS OUR GOAL

Injured or orphaned wild animals native to Indiana are admitted into our care every day. Wildlife as small as hummingbirds and chipmunks to animals as large as coyote, fox, opossums, eagles and other species in need are provided various levels of rehabilitation assistance. Releasing rehabilitated wildlife is at the very top of our favorite moments.

EDUCATION CENTER WELCOMES CLOSE-UP LEARNING

Wildlife informational seminars are offered at our Valparaiso location and domestic pet talks are offered at our shelter in Munster. Camps for school-aged children can be found at both locations throughout the year.

In addition to these seminars, our wildlife team travels throughout the state and provides wildlife education programs at schools and public events. Conducted by trained staff, the programs include our live wildlife ambassadors. Our ambassador animals were admitted for treatment but could not be released back to the wild due to their injuries. They each have their own stories.

Enrichment Activities

Enrichment activities and socialization are beneficial for both humans and animals!