From a one-room shack to adopting more than 800 animals a year, HHS has much to celebrate.

It’s an exciting time to be a part of Hinsdale Humane Society.

The well-known animal shelter, which serves all of the Western Suburbs, is celebrating its 60th Birthday and all its accomplishments over the past six decades.

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Founded in 1953 by six local women looking to make a difference, HHS has grown from a one room shack with a dangling light bulb and no heat to a wonderful facility offering not only adoptions, but also community programs and services.

“Our mission is to not only find forever families for our homeless pets, but to enrich our community,” says HHS Executive Director Lori Halligan.

HHS is making this goal a reality with its Humane Education and Pet Therapy programs, reaching children, the elderly and those with special needs.

“Our programs are reaching so many people that, chances are, if you haven’t personally worked with Hinsdale Humane Society, someone you know has,” Lori says.

The shelter is also continuing to make connections with its homeless pets and their new owners.

“It’s a wonderful experience watching someone go home with their new furry family member,” Lori says. “You watch them walk out knowing the wonderful impact they’ll have on each other’s life for years to come.”

In honor of this huge milestone, the society will host a special birthday gala, “A Fetching Affair” Saturday, October 26th, at Butterfield Country Club and all proceeds raised will go directly back to the shelter and the animals it serves. Along with dinner, drinks, live entertainment, auction and more, the evening will include special touches highlighting the good work of HHS, including heartwarming adoption stories, life changing pet therapy moments and more.

“It’s really a night to celebrate the hard work of our staff and volunteers and the wonderful people in our community who have supported us throughout the years,” Lori says. “We are so proud of everyone who has been involved in making the lives of these animals better.”

For tickets to A Fetching Affair, or to make a donation or get involved at HHS, visit www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org .

Photo:  HHS volunteers Alan Lis and Samantha Cheatham at the 2013 HHS Pet Walk.

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