01/14/2026
A powerful message from our President highlighting exciting news and upcoming events:
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to welcome you all to the new year and share some exciting news about what's happening at the Humane Society.
First of all, "Kitty City" is on track to be built in 2026 with anticipated construction starting this Spring! After many meetings with stakeholders, staff, contractors, and architects, a dream is about to become reality—all for the better of our animal friends, and for our generous community that supports them. We plan to cut the ribbon and open the doors by September. Moving the cats to their own space and providing new amenities for staff will also create new and exciting possibilities in our existing facilities—such as a much-needed conference space and education center, and better arrangements for the dogs, pups, and everyone else.
Second, one of our dogs is going to be featured in this Spring's national Puppy Bowl...and has already been featured in a colorful book you can buy! "Calamity Jane" is going to be the first puppy from South Dakota ever featured at this annual event. It takes place on February 8th and is televised on Animal Planet. The book about this marvelous dog is Calamity Jane: From Stray to Star, which is available with a donation at our puppy bowl celebration (TBD).
Third, the Second "Pet Gala" is scheduled for this April 11th at the Dahl Fine Arts Center. Last year's Gala was a smashing success that we have both learned from and reaped rewards from. This year's annual event is projected to be even better and more fun—but only if you manage to get tickets to attend! April is coming up soon! (Get it on the calendar or I'll have Tammy send Animal Control!)
Fourth, 2026 also marks the first year of our new Board election process. Last year the Board approved new Bylaws that converts the Society to a member organization, meaning that members will not only receive various perks for their regular support, but they are endowed with real democratic powers as well. From this point forward, all Board Directors will be elected by the membership and from the membership. Each year the membership will also convene to discuss the needs, state, and future of the Humane Society at an Annual Meeting. We're doing this because the Humane Society believes that public transparency and democratic organization is essential, not optional, to building a healthy and sustainable future for everyone. In an age of radical corruption and secrecy, this entrusting of power in our community represents our commitment to a higher standard that is desperately needed and shines the light forward both within and beyond the world of animal care.
There is now only 1 week left to apply on the Board. The Board holds up to 13 seats and we currently have 6 occupied. I invite eligible candidates to consider serving, as Board leadership is essential to fulfilling our mission and accomplishing all the wonderful things that we do. For more information on eligibility requirements, please contact Human Resources and our Chair of Board development Committee at [email protected].
Fifth and finally, I want to thank you for a remarkable end-of-year giving season. Contrary to popular belief, over 65% of our funding comes not from public sources but from private donations. We've taken some necessary risks in the last couple years to address a variety of challenges and they are beginning to pay off in the form of restored relationships, more effective organization, increased funding, upgraded facilities, and alot more happy faces who found their animal partner.
But this is just the beginning.
We have ambitious plans to raise around $1 million for a new (a) back-patio training/kennel enclosure used to socialize and train animals, as well as for regular maintenance during winter, and (b) essential improvements to our medical services and support. Furthermore, and more importantly, we want to add several million dollars to our long-term endowment funds so that we can keep the doors open and our animals taken care of in an uncertain future of public cuts, cuts, and more cuts. The cost of operations only continues to rise, and animal care costs are skyrocketing as much as personal healthcare.
The easiest step you can take toward all of these vital goals is by getting connected and becoming a member. It all starts there. Otherwise, we will see you at the Pet Gala in April!
Thanks again,
and keep hanging with us,
Dr. Jamin Andreas Hübner
President, Humane Society of the Black Hills “
