About

WHO WE ARE

A network built on collaboration, powered by compassion

Maine Humane serves as the connective tissue for animal welfare work across our state. We bring together diverse organizations, from rural volunteer rescues to large municipal shelters, and create opportunities for collaboration, learning, and mutual support.

Maine Humane is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources, opportunities, and collaboration to promote and advance the humane care of all animals throughout the state of Maine. We are not a shelter—we are a network that connects and strengthens the organizations that directly serve animals.

Founded in 1953 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 1980, Maine Humane has evolved from a small coalition into a comprehensive statewide network. We partner with shelters, rescues, animal control agencies, and advocacy groups across all 16 Maine counties.

“Together, we’re stronger. By working as a unified network, Maine’s animal welfare organizations can accomplish what no single organization could achieve alone.”

Our work spans policy advocacy, resource sharing, education, and coordination of statewide initiatives. We monitor legislation affecting animal welfare, provide training and grant opportunities, organize the annual Maine Humane Conference, and coordinate responses to large-scale animal welfare emergencies.