Learn about hsimc's history

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In the early 1980’s the forerunner of Humane Society for Inland Mendocino County, called DAP (Domestic Animal Protection), was founded.  Its primary purpose was to raise funds for spay/neuter education and services.  Funding came from individual donations and proceeds from an ongoing rummage sale, bake sale and other fundraising efforts.

In 1988 the group voted to change the name of the organization to Humane Society for Inland Mendocino County (HSIMC).  The newly named group concentrated on trying to establish a 501 c 3 non-profit animal shelter and adoption center.  Others decided to continue focusing primarily on spay/neuter assistance to the community and the Spay Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP) was created.

In the early 1990’s Beatrice Breeze, a longtime supporter, made a large contribution to HSIMC with the stipulation that her donation be used to purchase property for a shelter that would serve both the communities of Willits and Ukiah.  The property at 9700 Uva Drive in Redwood Valley was acquired and the shelter was opened in 1993.

Maintaining the shelter has come with some challenges over the years. The determination of staff, volunteers and HSIMC membership has carried the day!  Time and time again the community stepped up when necessary to support THEIR humane society. 

In 2013, the shelter received a generous donation from the estate of another long-time supporter, Bea Scanlon.  We were able to make some much needed improvements to both the dog and cat kennel facilities.  In addition, we were able to build a large storage facility to house equipment and supplies, fund-raising items and provide additional kennel space when necessary.   A substantial sum was invested to help ensure the sustainability of the shelter for many years to come.