MSPCA launched a collaborative program in Massachusetts, called MASS, aimed at working together to increase adoptions, decrease euthanasia, and build a community of practice around developing behavior strategies to help the animals in shelters that struggle the most. This panel discussion will include key members of the coalition (Dakin Humane Society, MSPCA, and Berkshire Humane Society) who will talk about progress, what positive changes the groups have had that were unexpected, as well as ...

Stories and messages influence what people think is true. They trigger our brains to ask: What's the problem, who is responsible, and what's the solution? They power thinking about critical issues like overwhelmed shelters, access to care, cruelty, and pet ownership. The problem is that mainstream stories give us the wrong answers. We're stuck with stereotypes, shaming, villainizing, and burnout. We must messa...

We all want successful adoptions, and part of making that happen includes preparing not only the adopters but the animals, too. This important, but often overlooked, preparation helps reduce stress (and stress-related illnesses) when animals leave shelters or foster homes and move into new homes with new people. Happy, healthy, less-stressed, and better-prepared pets also mean happier adopters, fewer returns, and better chances for family bonding and positive life-long relationships. This ses...

This session will delve into essential topics such as governance, strategic planning, fundraising, and board member engagement. Participants will gain insights into navigating the unique challenges faced by animal welfare organizations, fostering collaboration, and building a cohesive, mission-focused board that stays engaged and effective. We will discuss successful recruitment strategies, the critical role of organizational by-laws, and provide Executive Director...

We use language as a mode of communication every day and can understandably overlook that the words we utilize are rooted in history. Being aware of history, as that which is impacted by cultural and political forces, can actually help us to build compassion, empathy, and inclusion – all of which not only lead to positive outcomes, but also to a deep personal joy in knowing that we have played a part in bringi...

We'll dive into a successful campaign that combines a modern approach with traditional best practices and show how it boosted revenue in a slow summer fundraising season. Attendees will leave empowered to create inclusive, compassionate campaigns without sacrificing revenue or lives saved.Topics include:Leading with empathy and inclusivityStrength-Based MessagingCompassionate StorytellingPositioning donors as partners, not saviors

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