St. Croix Animal Welfare Center Inc.

The St. Croix Animal Welfare Center Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the humane treatment of animals in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. Since its establishment, the center has been the sole provider of animal shelter services on the island.

History

Established in 1973, the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center has been committed to caring for homeless, abused, and neglected animals. It operates as an open-admissions shelter, never turning away animals in need. The center's original shelter was destroyed by Hurricane Maria in 2017, and it has since been operating from temporary facilities.

Mission and Activities

The organization's primary mission is to provide and promote the humane treatment of animals through humane education, animal protection, and community service. Its activities include:

• Shelter Services: Providing housing for unwanted or stray animals with the hope of adoption.
• Veterinary Care: Offering low-cost veterinary services to the community.
• Spay/Neuter Program: Reducing pet overpopulation by providing affordable spaying and neutering services.
• Humane Education: Educating the public on proper animal care and welfare practices.
• Community Outreach: Engaging in community service to maintain the human-animal bond across different income levels.

Funding

The organization receives only a small portion of its funding from the local government, with the majority coming from community donations, clinic services, and fundraising events.

Capital Campaign

As part of its efforts to rebuild, the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center launched a Capital Campaign to secure a new permanent location at Castle Coakley. This campaign aims to increase the center's capabilities and community engagement in animal welfare.

Financial Information

In recent financial reports, contributions have been the primary source of revenue, followed by program services. The organization operates with minimal liabilities and focuses its expenses primarily on salaries and operational costs.

Impact

The St. Croix Animal Welfare Center plays a crucial role in animal welfare on the island, serving as a model for best practices in animal sheltering and community service. It fosters a supportive work environment while respecting the cultural framework of the US Virgin Islands.

Events and Fundraising

The organization hosts events such as the annual Fur Ball Masquerade to raise funds for its operations and new facility project.

Tax Status

The St. Croix Animal Welfare Center Inc. is registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, making donations tax-deductible.