Mohawk Hudson Humane Society receives historic donation

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Mohawk Hudson Humane Society receives historic donation from Business for Good and Lisa & Ed Mitzen; humane society reveals new name for the organization

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]PRESS RELEASE – It’s the single largest gift in the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society’s 135-year history, a moment that comes as the result of a donation from Business for Good and Lisa and Ed Mitzen. The $1 million gift also comes with a new name for the state-of-the-art facility that houses the Humane Society’s many programs and services: The Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center.

“We are humbled that Business for Good has recognized the good work happening at Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and has chosen to not only give us a tremendous financial gift, but also to align with us in a very personal and visible way,” said Ashley Jeffrey Bouck, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society’s CEO. “Much more than a gift, this is a collaboration, and we are already exploring ways to work together to fulfill each of our missions and to achieve greater equity in our communities.”

Bouck became CEO of the Humane Society in May of 2020, tasked with figuring out how to deliver essential services to the community while keeping staff and volunteers safe. Signature fundraisers became virtual, and the Mitzens served as the honorary chairs for the 2021 Gala for Animals.

“Their generosity helped make the event the most financially successful gala we have ever had,” said Bouck. “That is when we really got to know Lisa and experience her lifelong passion for helping animals. In Lisa, we have found an ally for the animals and their people, and we could not be more grateful or proud to partner with Business for Good as they fulfill their vision for a better world.”

In the spring of 2017, Lisa Mitzen asked her husband Ed how he felt about building a small barn to house three goats and a few chickens so they would have farm fresh eggs. The Handsome Cock Farm was officially established in the fall of 2017. What started as a hobby farm with five goats and a handful of chickens quickly turned into much more; today the farm has grown to include 11 goats and more than 30 chickens! All of the proceeds from the farm are donated to local charities.

“Animal causes have been a passion since my youth, as has been my passion to give back,” said Lisa Mitzen. “It is an absolute honor to partner with the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and align with their mission of animal care and health.”

During the unveiling, an array of elected officials were present to offer comments about the incredible work of the Humane Society and its bright future, including Senator Jim Tedisco, Assemblyman John McDonald, representatives for Assemblywoman Pat Fahey and Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, Albany County District Attorney David Soares, and Albany Mayor, Kathy Sheehan. The unveiling was led by President and CEO of the Capital Region Chamber, Mark Eagan and the President of the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce, Kate Manley.

“Through venture philanthropy, entrepreneur support, and impact giving, the Mitzen’s mission is to build stronger communities and a more equitable world,” said Eagan. “Today’s historic donation to the Humane Society is indicative of their ongoing philanthropic generosity.”

“This organization does so much more than shelter animals,” added Manley. “Their growing humane law enforcement program and its efforts to bring animal abusers to justice is just one example of how the work of Mohawk Hudson Humane Society keeps all of us safer. The Mitzen’s donation is a tremendous gift to our community and will go far in continuing the excellent work the humane society does on a daily basis.”

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About the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (renamed The Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center)

Founded in 1887, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (MHHS) is the oldest and largest animal protection organization in New York’s Capital Region, serving Albany, Rensselaer and surrounding counties. In addition to providing shelter and care for stray, abused and unwanted animals, MHHS provides an ever-increasing array of services for animals and those who care for them. These programs contributed to a 95.6% live release rate in 2021. This includes low-cost spay/neuter and wellness services, vaccination and microchip clinics, stray housing for municipalities, dog training, a pet food pantry and humane education programming for all ages.

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About The Business for Good Foundation™

With values rooted in equity, access, opportunity, and prosperity, Business for Good has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. Formed in 2020, BFG seeks to give back to move forward and is rooted in the core principle of “for good, not gain.” Comprised of a mission-focused team, Business for Good™ believes no challenge is insurmountable through hard and thoughtful work. With a goal to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support, BFG invests in people for the long term and in every way. Business for Good: building better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world. To learn more, visit www.bfg.org

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