Founded in 1978, Animal Samaritans SPCA, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit animal welfare organization whose mission is to improve the lives of animals and people in the greater Coachella Valley. The mission is met through spay/neuter and vaccination services, operating a "no-kill" shelter, providing animal adoption, animal assisted therapy and humane education services. Animal Samaritans' unique approach is focused on prevention - treating the causes of overpopulation rather than the symptoms.

SITE-BASED ANIMAL WELFARE ORGANIZATIONS IN
THE GREATER COACHELLA VALLEY

In 2008, Animal Samaritans spayed/neutered 8,353 animals, vaccinated 24,924 dogs and cats, implanted microchips in 787 pets, and added weekend clinics to meet a burgeoning demand for all services. The organization also began offering additional medical procedures, such as dental care, blood work, and wellness examinations.

In addition to these low-cost medical services, in 2008 Animal Samaritans provided more than $97,000 in waived fees to cover the spay/neuter procedures for pets of qualified individuals, ensuring that no one was turned away at our clinic,and to reduce feral cat overpopulation. We also manage grant funding from three philanthropic foundations that underwrite veterinary care for pets belonging to qualifying seniors.

In 2008, the Humane Education program served a record 23,391 students in more than 1,100 school classrooms. Volunteers are critical to the success of all programs. The Angels Auxiliary and dayto- day volunteers provide countless helping hands for shelter and clinic chores, administration and fundraising. Those who work with humane education help reach out to teach youngsters the important message of animal kindness, respect and responsibility. Through the Animal Assisted Therapy program, volunteers and staff visit senior homes, hospitals and special needs classrooms, bringing friendship and comfort through the unconditional love of therapy animals.