Awards

The Midwest Animal Sheltering Conference awards honor the exceptional efforts and achievements of individuals and organizations committed to making a difference in the lives of animals and their communities. Each award category acknowledges a remarkable contribution and commitment to innovation, excellence, and compassion.

Join us as we celebrate the achievements of the outstanding individuals and organizations who have made exceptional contributions to the field of animal welfare. At this year's conference, we're proud to honor those who have gone above and beyond to improve the lives of animals and families in our communities.

Individual Awards

• Leader of the Year
  The "Leader of the Year Award" serves to honor and celebrate the exemplary leadership of an individual who has made a significant difference in the lives of animals, their community, and people within their organization. Through their visionary leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence, they inspire others and serve as a beacon of hope for a more compassionate and humane world. In recognition that leadership can be exemplified in any role within an organization, nominees do not need to be in a management position and can be an emerging leader in their organization.

• Volunteer of the Year
  The "Volunteer of the Year Award" recognizes an individual whose dedication and compassion have significantly contributed to the success and mission of the animal organization. Through their commitment, passion, and leadership, they exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and make a lasting impact on the well-being of animals and the community.

Organization Awards

• Keep Pets with Their People Award
  The "Keep Pets with Their People Award" is a special recognition bestowed upon an organization that demonstrates outstanding efforts to support and preserve the bond between pets and their human families. This award celebrates those who work tirelessly to keep pets with their family, recognizing the vital importance of maintaining these cherished relationships.

• Innovation of the Year Award
  The "Innovation of the Year Award" celebrates an organization that has successfully implemented a program or initiative that is new to their organization and/or community. This award recognizes an organization that strives for excellence and embraces innovative solutions to enhance the lives of the animals in their care and the communities they serve.

Eligibility

In order for a nominee to be eligible to receive an award, the organization or individual must be:

• located in the Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin).

• present at the Midwest Animal Sheltering Conference to accept their award.

Recognition

• All finalists will be notified of their nomination.

• Winners will be announced at the Awards Banquet during the Midwest Animal Sheltering Conference.

• A commemorative plaque or trophy will be presented to each individual or organizational winner.

• A grant in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded to the organization.

Make a Nomination

Do you know someone who deserves to be honored for their outstanding contributions to animal welfare? Nominate them for one of our prestigious awards! Help us shine a spotlight on those who are making a difference and inspiring positive change in the lives of animals.