Our History

Since 1963, we have served the community as a No-Kill animal shelter. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, that does not receive any tax money, and are entirely dependent upon memberships and donations. We are not affiliated with the Humane Society of the United States.

From our inception in 1963 and until 1976, there was not a central location to house the unwanted or abused animals. These animals were boarded at local veterinarians. In 1976, we opened our current facility, which was once a former fruit stand.

We purchased the building in 1983 and have been slowly remodeling and expanding as contributions allow. There are now accommodations for 24 cats and 24 dogs, which includes an addition that houses ten large dogs with corresponding 12’ outdoor exercise runs, and a fenced in one acre exercise area. The shelter is staffed daily to maintain appropriate service levels for the animals and those wishing to adopt them. We are committed to ending all forms of abuse to domestic animals. We urge voters to support legislation to protect animals. We believe in teaching children the proper way to treat and care for animals. We urge the spaying and neutering of companion animals and believe that animal guardianship is a privilege for those who wish to love and be loved by faithful friends.

In April 2010, Kankakee County Humane Society and Kankakee County Animal Foundation decided to merge together and form a new larger organization. The new organization is named Kankakee County Humane Foundation.  We feel this new name fully represents our mission.  As always we are dedicated to serving Kankakee County animals in a humane way.  The Foundation portion of our new name honors the history of the Animal Foundation as our new partner, makes us more current, and the word “Foundation” more clearly identifies our goal of sustainability.  KCAF brings a dynamic board of directors, a dedicated pool of active volunteers, and enjoys a mission that is completely in step with KCHS.  We feel we can all look forward to a new animal advocacy organization that is re-energized to face the challenges ahead.

As before, we receive no funding from any governmental or national organization - we rely solely on your generosity.  You have been very generous over the years, for which the board is grateful, as your generosity allows us to fulfill our mission.

With your help we were able to find loving homes for over 200 animals last year.  The valuable and difficult work of rescuing animals and providing new homes continues to be our highest priority.  With all of the animal abuse situations in the press recently it is clear that the animals of our area continue to need strong advocacy for humane treatment.  Your financial, physical and emotional contributions to this organization continue to provide hope and light for animals and humans alike.

Give us a call or send us an Email

(815) 933-5999
Adoption Center email address: k3humanefoundation@yahoo.com