2009 ANNUAL REPORT
INTRODUCTION: This annual report allows prospective donors as well as current contributors to get a recap of the programs and objectives of this organization.
TAX STATUS: Defenders of Animals Rights, Inc., is a nonprofit corporation under section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Service code. Donations are tax deductible.
GOVERNANCE: Defenders is governed by a Board of Directors who have demonstrated their experience and dedication to animal welfare. The Board has two to five meetings a year.
2009 IN REVIEW: Recent copies of the organization's newsletter are enclosed. They show our numerous activities to benefit both people and animals. 2009 was our 22nd full year of operation at our current animal shelter. During 2009, we placed 781 animals in new homes. Since opening the shelter, we have adopted out a total of 25,969 animals. Other programs include spay/neuter services, veterinary care, rescues, humane education, farm animal care, youth work programs, grief counseling, etc. We have adoption programs at our shelter, pet supply stores, and through newspaper advertising.
The bad economy has forced many people to part with their beloved pets. Foreclosures have resulted in displaced families. Some pet owners just couldn’t afford rising veterinary costs. We gave all these families peace of mind knowing their animals were in safe hands. All the cats and dogs were given extensive medical treatment and were placed in good homes.
Children who visit and do community service at the shelter learn about animal care. Our programs promote a good work ethic and help young adults to be responsible on the job and in the community.
HISTORY OF DEFENDERS OF ANIMAL RIGHTS: The organization was formed in late 1975 and was founded by Mary Jo Kovic. After working several years with other organizations, Ms. Kovic saw the need for a new group to help animals and people.
This group - Defenders of Animal Rights, Inc. - would provide a multitude of services not available at the time. These services include animal shelter operation, low-cost spay/neuter services, aggressive adoption program, humane education, wildlife sanctuary, work programs for youth, etc.
The Defenders’ shelter would be different from existing shelters that euthanize animals after only four or five days. This new shelter would hold adoptable animals for as long as it took to find them homes.
The corporation was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland in July, 1976. It gained 501(c)(3) status by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. THIS YEAR, WE CELEBRATE OUR 34TH ANNIVERSARY!
Starting out slowly, Defenders centered its activities on education. In 1979, it purchased a 35.8- acre property to realize the goal of an animal shelter and wildlife/farm animal sanctuary. The shelter opened in late 1988.
The organization is supported by donations from the public. Contributors receive a bi-monthly newsletter describing its activities. The public is always welcome to visit the shelter and see firsthand the animals they are helping.
DIRECTORY OF SERVICES:
· Animal Shelter, Wildlife Sanctuary, Farm Animal Center
· Rescues, Veterinary Care, Adoptions
· Humane Education
· Services to help humans:
· Grief Counseling
· Youth Work, Community Service
· Visits/Tours for Scouts, Schools, Nursing Homes, etc.
· Adoptions: Adoptions enhance human health. Studies have shown there are physical and emotional benefits to having a pet.
· Animals Control/Education: Defenders works to reduce pet overpopulation, thus decreasing the numbers of stray animals on the street. This spares taxpayers considerable expense for animal control. It also helps curb the spread of diseases such as rabies.
SHELTER OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: The public is always welcome to visit our shelter facility. Unlike many charities, this is one place where supporters can actually see how their donations are being used. Our normal hours are 10 am to 4 pm Monday thru Friday and 10 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. We care for our animals 365 days of the year, but we are closed to the public on Sundays and holidays.
Mary Jo Kovic
President and Executive Director
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