Annually, MPA recognizes programs of excellence and individuals who have made major contributions to improve animal welfare in Michigan through an awards and grants program.
The theme for the 2021 grants and awards program was Lessons Learned From COVID-19. Two awards of $1,500 each were made available to Michigan animal shelters and rescue organizations that demonstrated positive changes made to operations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021 Lessons Learned Awards
Michele’s Rescue, Grand Rapids, Michigan, is awarded a $1,500 grant for instituting a foster-to-adopt program during the pandemic shut down, now allowing any potential adopter to become a foster care home first, providing them with a trial period to allow their new pet to adjust slowly to their new home.
Ingham County Animal Control & Shelter, Mason, Michigan, is awarded a $1,500 grant for instituting the Fear Free program during the pandemic shut down to reduce length of stay and to create a quieter, healthier environment for the animals.
2021 Continuous Improvement Grants
Humane Animal Treatment Society (HATS), Mt Pleasant, Michigan, is awarded a hands-on in-shelter training grant. HATS will use the training grant to improve standards of care for dogs.
Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter, Gwinn, Michigan, is awarded a Blueprint for Excellence shelter assessment grant. UPAWS will take what it learns from the assessment to prepare its 2022 strategic plan.
