Celebrating 47 Years of Compassion: 47 Ways to Get Involved

This year, the Humane Society of Charlotte turns 47! That's 47 years of connecting pets and people, saving lives, and strengthening our community. Whether you've been with us for years or you're just getting to know HSC, we’re inviting you to help us celebrate this milestone by giving back in a way that’s meaningful to you.

Here are 47 ways to get involved, give back, and support the animals who make our lives whole.


Ways to Give and Donate to Animal Rescue

1. Donate $47 for HSC's 47th birthday — or become a $47/month donor to sustain our lifesaving work

2. Make a one-time donation to support urgent needs — humanecharlotte.org/give

3. Set up a recurring monthly gift and become a sustaining supporter

4. Make a gift in honor or memory of a person or pet you love

5. Give through your Donor-Advised Fund or workplace giving program

6. Include HSC in your will or estate plan and join the Legacy Society

7. Start a birthday fundraiser on Facebook or Instagram

8. Give to "Have a Heart" to support animals needing medical care

9. Support "Spay It Forward" to reduce pet overpopulation in Charlotte

10. Donate to our "Pet Crisis Support Fund" to assist owned pets in crisis visiting HSC for resources

11. Donate shelter supplies via Chewy or Amazon

12. Donate supplies to our foster program

13. Purchase a commemorative brick to honor a loved one

14. Create your own fundraiser — lemonade stand, birthday party, etc.

15. Host a supply drive using our Amazon or Chewy Wish Lists


Pet Adoption and Foster Opportunities in Charlotte

16. Adopt your new best friend from HSC — browse available pets at humanecharlotte.org/adoption

17. Become a foster caregiver for pets in need — sign up at humanecharlotte.org/foster

18. Share an adoptable pet on your social media — every post helps them find a home

19. Adopt a senior pet or one with special needs | Cats: Corn, Ellie, Vindaloo | Dogs: Draya and Matilda

20. Visit HSC, grab a coffee in our Cat Cafe, and hang out with adoptable cats

21. Attend an upcoming Cat Yoga session with adoptable kitties


Volunteer with Animals in Charlotte

22. Sign up for a volunteer orientation — humanecharlotte.org/volunteer

23. Join YAP - HSC's group for Young Affiliated Professionals

24. Register your dog to become a Canine Good Citizen

25. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Animal Resource Center, email Danielle to schedule here

26. Sign up for Student Service Day for youth ages 8–15

27. Make DIY dog toys, cat wands, or beds for shelter pets

28. Join us for Reading Buddies 101 orientation to read to the animals whenever we are open


Community Outreach and Animal Advocacy

29. Encourage your workplace to support HSC as a partner

30. Invite HSC to speak at your workplace, school, or club

31. Advocate for humane legislation and animal protection laws

32. Help educate others on spay/neuter and responsible pet ownership

33. Talk to friends about choosing adoption over shopping for pets

34. Share our community clinic services to help families in need

35. Spread awareness on National Pet Days like National Kitten Day, Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, etc.

36. Write a review or testimonial on Google, Yelp, or Facebook

37. Share our mission and news on social media — follow us @humanecharlotte


Events and Activities Supporting Pets in Charlotte

38. Buy a 2026 Rescue Brew calendar

39. Get Rescue Brew on tap at our Launch Party with NoDa Brewing on 8/1

40. Shop our online store and wear your love for animals

41. Attend our annual Ties & Tails Gala to support in style - tickets on sale 7/16!

42. Celebrate summer at the YAP Summer Soirée

43. Support Paws for a Cause businesses every month when you dine and shop

44. Check our events calendar for all upcoming events at HSC


Family-Friendly Ways to Support Animal Rescue

45. Host a birthday party with donations for HSC in lieu of gifts

46. Organize a school, scout, or youth group project to help animals

47. Share your adoption story or favorite pet photo using #HSCturns47

Thank you for being part of our mission to support animal rescue in Charlotte. However you choose to celebrate, your support helps us continue saving lives, one paw at a time. Here's to 47 more years of compassion, community, and care for animals in need!