EIN 84-0432950

American Humane - First To Serve

IRS 501(c) type
501(c)(3)
Num. employees
117
Year formed
1877
Most recent tax filings
2024-06-01
Description
American Humane - First To Serve is an organization committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of animals. Its leadership programs promote and nurture bonds between humans and animals. The American Humane hero dog awards celebrate acts of heroism by dogs across the country. American Humane rescue teams have been saving animals from natural disasters, cruelty, neglect, or hoarding for over 100 years. It is located in Washington, DC.
Also known as...
American Humane Association
Total revenues
$28,083,367
2024
Total expenses
$26,496,250
2024
Total assets
$45,465,536
2024
Num. employees
117
2024

Program areas at American Humane - First To Serve

American Humane hollywoodamerican Humane's "no animals were harmed" certification program was and is the First To Serve in the protection of animals in film and television, safeguarding millions of animals on tens of thousands of productions worldwide for more than 80 years. Since 1940, our program has been at the forefront of animal welfare in filmed entertainment. We are the leading industry-sanctioned organization with oversight of animals in filmed production and the sole entity To award the internationally recognized no animals were harmed end-credit certification To productions that meet our rigorous standard of care.the purpose of the no animals were harmed certification program is To help ensure that film productions meet the requirements of our "no animals were harmed" keeping animals safe on sets, which also results in greater safety for human actors. The program fundamentally: works To protect animals used in film, television and commercial production, no matter where filming occurs, during the production and on set. Educates and informs film industry professionals and the public regarding the Humane treatment of animal actors in the global media community. Verifies American Humane's guidelines for the safe use of animals in filmed media with specially trained certified animal safety representatives, many of whom are veterinarians.
American Humane conservationin the face of what scientists are calling a "sixth mass extinction" with species disappearing at an unprecedented rate, zoos and aquariums are playing an outsized role in preserving the vital web of life on earth. To elevate standards and shine a spotlight on those who take good care of their animals, American Humane developed the first-ever independent, global, and science-based Humane certification dedicated solely To helping ensure the welfare and Humane treatment of the animals in the world's zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers. Animal welfare standards are regularly reviewed by the program's scientific advisory committee, an international group of animal science experts, veterinarians, and ethicists.fewer than three percent of zoological institutions worldwide are accredited or certified. While industry-affiliated associations offer programs for broad accreditation of business practices, American Humane certified is the only independent, third-party certification effort solely devoted To the Humane treatment of animals in zoos, aquariums, and other conservation organizations.the American Humane certified program offers three levels of transparent and credible assurance: uniquely qualified, trusted Humane organization: American Humane is the world's largest certifier of animal welfare, protecting more than 1 billion animals around the globe with the most recognized, credible, and respected Humane programs. These include the world's largest farm animal welfare certification program and the historic "no animals were harmed" film certification. Comprehensive welfare criteria developed by top experts: the program is built on comprehensive welfare criteria informed by an unmatched, independent scientific advisory committee made up of highly respected experts in animal welfare, animal science, behavior, and animal ethics. Independent verification: implementation of these rigorous welfare measures are verified by independent auditors with extensive zoological expertise in animal science and welfare.we are proud To announce the following accomplishments on behalf of the remarkable and endangered animals with whom we share the earth. Helping protect species in zoological settings worldwide: American Humane advances the welfare and Humane treatment of nearly 500,000 animals at 79 leading zoological facilities around the world. Fewer than one percent of zoos and aquariums have earned our prestigious Humane certified seal of approval. Global expansion: major institutions around the world are lining up To become American Humane certified and we now certify major zoological facilities in dozens of countries in north america, the caribbean, europe, asia and now expanding into the middle east. Award-winning conservation film launched: To counter the "sixth mass extinction" now taking place and rally a new generation of advocates for the preservation of earth's precious animals, American Humane created its First documentary film, "escape from extinction," narrated by oscar-winning actress dame helen mirren. The film is galvanizing animal lovers around the world and was named the "best environmental documentary" of 2020 at doc la and is played in theaters around the world. The sequel To American Humane's award-winning documentary, escape from extinction rewilding, narrated by academy award winner meryl streep, will be released september 27, 2024. Rewilding is a transformative conservation strategy that prioritizes the restoration of natural ecosystems by reintroducing native species. This innovative approach restores ecological balance and enhances biodiversity, while generating farther-reaching impacts, such as strengthening our local and global food systems, mitigating climate change, and offering significant socio-economic benefits To communities. This documentary showcases the tangible successes and ongoing challenges in the field of rewilding by some of the world's leading organizations. * the film has already been awarded "best documentary" by the atlantis awards 2024 and "official selection" of the breckenridge film festival 2024. Raised public awareness for Humane conservation: millions of people have been reached through our educational videos and national tv and radio public service announcements (psa) about the vital role of zoos and aquariums in conservation. Honoring the heroes of global animal conservation wolfgang kiessling international prize for species conservationat American Humane, we recognize that the work To preserve earth's species is more critical than ever. Equally important are the scientists, researchers, and advocates dedicating their lives To conservation.to honor those making significant contributions in conservation theory, practice, and research, American Humane launched the wolfgang kiessling international prize for species conservation.this prestigious annual award celebrates conservationists who have made measurable impacts on species conservation. It is named after wolfgang f. kiessling, founder of loro parque and a globally renowned leader in conservation. Following a rigorous application and review process led by global conservation experts, the prize is awarded To one outstanding conservationist.the inaugural 2022 recipient was prof. jon paul rodriguez, chair of the species survival commission of the international union for conservation of nature. In 2023, prof. theo pagel of cologne zoo, germany, received the prize for his work on sustainability strategies and guidelines for conservation education as president of the world Association of zoos and aquariums. He also co-chaired the international reverse the red (rtr) initiative.we are proud To announce that the 2024 prize will be awarded To dr. arnaud desbiez in Washington, d.c., on september 26, 2024. Through his ngo, icas (instituto de conservao de animais silvestres), dr. desbiez has worked collaboratively To find socially inclusive solutions To biodiversity threats in four brazilian biomes: pantanal, cerrado, atlantic forest, and the amazon. His flagship species, the giant armadillos and giant anteaters, symbolize his mission To promote harmonious coexistence between people and biodiversity. Humane tourism as millions of people worldwide seek To connect with earth's wildlife, global Humane, the international arm of American Humane, has identified a vital opportunity To leverage our animal welfare expertise by creating a Humane tourism certification program. This program assesses and certifies wildlife reserves, lodges, and tour operators for their Humane treatment of animals they may encounter or impact, built on the same foundation of science and evidence-based practices for which we are renowned.like our conservation program, the Humane tourism initiative is guided by a scientific advisory committee of animal welfare experts who specialize in the complex relationship between tourism and wildlife. Their input has shaped comprehensive welfare criteria and rigorous standards, which are verified through independent, on-site audits for any operation seeking Humane tourism certification. Since its launch in late 2023, we have certified six leading entities in africa and will continue To drive this innovative program forward.
American Humane farm animal programamerican Humane believes people should be able To follow their food preference and find humanely raised dairy, meat, and egg products.the American Humane farm animal program was - and is the First To Serve in the protection of farm animals. Our American Humane certified farm animal welfare certification program is the oldest, largest, and fastest-growing auditing and certification effort in the country. The purpose of this vital program is To help improve and verify the treatment of animals on farms and ranches utilizing evidence and science-based welfare standards, and To educate consumers and people involved in the food supply chain about the significance and benefits of the Humane treatment of farm animals.this program certifies the Humane treatment of more animals in food production than any other and has expanded into south america. Farm animal welfare standards are frequently reviewed by the program's scientific advisory committee, an international group of animal science experts, veterinarians, and ethicists. Third-party audits are conducted annually by independent auditors, and are based on the science and evidence-based American Humane certified standards. The program covers thousands of farms and ranches throughout the united states and abroad. The American Humane certified seal is now found on many products in grocery stores, including dairy, chicken, turkey, pork, ducks, and eggs.
American Humane rescuefor more than 100 years, American Humane rescue teams have been First To Serve in the protection of animals suffering in natural disasters as well as human-made cases of cruelty, neglect, or hoarding. American Humane rescue teams save, feed, and shelter animals in crisis, and provide lifesaving tips and disaster preparation training before, during, and after disasters. First responders travel the nation with a fleet of specially equipped rescue vehicles.american Humane rescue serves the animal victims of unimaginable cruelty and abuse. Our emergency rescue team collaborates with local law enforcement agencies on large-scale animal cruelty investigations, involving everything from hoarding cases To puppy mills and dogfighting operations. Whenever and wherever tragedy strikes, whether a natural disaster or an incident of deplorable abuse, American Humane rescue is there for animals. The program's purpose is To provide intervention for communities in crisis and To build more Humane communities nationwide through training, grants, shelter support, and Humane education.american Humane rescue deployments in 2024 included: team headed To Guam To help after typhoon mawar: American Humane rescue was called into action To assist with critical relief efforts in Guam in the wake of typhoon mawar. Our team assisted with and were focused on the safety and well-being of displaced animals in several communities on the island. American Humane helped with animal rescues, reunifications, and animal control issues. They also trained local animal control staff in advanced techniques To enhance their effectiveness and safety in the field. An island endemic species that's faced the brink of extinction was also affected by the typhoon's aftermath. The island's critically endangered ko'ko' bird (also known as Guam rail) was another focus of American Humane's efforts including working on permanent measures To help the species increase populations. American Humane cannot let this species disappear from earth! Helped animals displaced by wildfires in spokane, Washington: American Humane deployed a rescue team To spokane, Washington amid ongoing wildfires. The fires burned more than 20,000 acres. American Humane worked with local authorities and groups To help shelter and care for hundreds of animals including family pets, horses, goats, sheep, chickens, and more that were impacted by the flames. In total, it's estimated that more than one thousand animals were impacted and needed care. Deployed a team To terrebonne parish, la: American Humane rescue provided a wellness vaccine and preparedness clinic To residents impacted by hurricane ida. Working with local animal control, shelter staff, veterinarians, and volunteer firefighters we were able To provide care, vaccination, and emergency preparedness starter kits To over 200 cats and dogs. Not only does this help the pets, and families but it also helps the local authorities get To know their community better, build trust, support, and have a more resilient community for animal health, disaster preparedness, and recovery. Team responded To animal cruelty and neglect case in east Texas: American Humane rescue deployed a team To assist local agencies and rescues care for over 55 animals including dogs and cats that were in deplorable conditions as the caretaker had become overwhelmed with health issues. We were able To provide care, treatment, and helped arrange transport out of the state To transfer the animals To agencies that could continue care and adopt them To forever homes. Team responded To animal cruelty and neglect case in central Louisiana: American Humane rescue deployed a team To assist local agencies and rescues care for over 35 dogs. We were able To provide care, treatment, and transport within the state To get them To agencies that could continue care and adopt them To forever homes. Trained more rescuers: American Humane was able To provide a series of First responder rescue trainings throughout the year. Class participants received hands-on education about dog and cat behavior and proper handling techniques, how To prepare their pets and community for a disaster, and essential components of deploying as an American Humane rescue First responder. Guam: in addition To American Humane's response To Guam they were also able To provide a series of trainings To help animal control and the department of agriculture with behavior, capture, and handling as well as cpr and aed. Hawaii: American Humane rescue provide a series of trainings To honolulu and the island of oahu partnering with emergency management, and local animal agencies To work on outreach and build partners To assist during disasters. American Humane was also able To include representatives from kuai and maui islands as well. Conferences: American Humane rescue provided several presentations To veterinarians and vet techs at viticus western states vet conference, and emergency managers and First responders at the national hurricane conference and psema vision quest. Red cross: American Humane rescue trained red cross personnel that will be assisting with managing co-located animals in their disaster shelters. American Humane provided a series of trainings virtually and in person across the country helping To identify safety concerns for people and animals and bring in additional resources To minimize issues arising in the emergency shelters.
Otheramerican Humane's lois pope life center for military affairsamerican Humane is committed To helping america's veterans and recognizing their heroic contributions To the united states both on and off the battlefield. American Humane has been First To Serve with the u.s. military for over a century: the animal rescue program was born on the battlefields of world war i europe, where, at the request of the u.s. secretary of war, volunteers with American Humane deployed To rescue and care for 68,000 wounded war horses each month.we continue To proudly honor this legacy today through American Humane's lois pope life center for military affairs. The program, founded through the generosity of philanthropist and passionate veterans advocate, lois pope, offers meaningful support To our veterans with two key areas of focus: First, providing lifesaving service dogs (pups4patriots) To veterans and First responders suffering from post-traumatic stress (pts) and/or traumatic brain injury (tbi); second, reuniting retired military working dogs with their former handlers.american Humane hero dog awards the American Humane hero dog awards is an annual, nationwide competition that searches out and recognizes america's hero dogs often ordinary dogs who do extraordinary things, whether it's saving lives on the battlefield, lending sight or hearing To a human companion, or helping people achieve their goals. Dogs are honored in multiple categories for the hero dog awards: law enforcement and First responder dogs this category broadly includes dogs that are critical To First responders, that safeguard the public, and that find the missing and victims of disasters. Law enforcement dogs' ability To help protect their human handlers, thwart lawbreakers, and find evidence makes them true partners To First responders. Scent detections dogs can accurately detect a variety of targets, including correctly identifying a multitude of diseases and flora and fauna, and are used To detect illicit substances, drugs, fire accelerants, firearms, or explosives. Search and rescue dogs are trained To find the missing, from those lost in the wilderness or city To victims of accidents and natural disasters. Service and guide/hearing dogs service dogs are trained To perform specific tasks for people with disabilities as defined by the americans with disabilities act (ada). They can be trained To work with people with physical mobility needs or limitations, or people who need alerts To medical conditions. They can also Serve as the "eyes and ears" for the blind and/or deaf or perform tasks for those with psychiatric disabilities such as post traumatic stress or traumatic brain injury. These specially trained dogs can even help by retrieving or manipulating objects that are out of their person's reach, alerting bystanders and retrieving help for their handler, leading while avoiding distractions and obstacles, and many other individual tasks as needed by a person with a disability. These heroes not only improve the lives of the people with whom they work, but also keep them safe every day. Therapy dogs credentialed animal-assisted therapy (aat) dogs are part of a therapeutic plan To aid with physical, social, emotional, and cognitive challenges for persons other than the dog's owner/handler. Aat has been shown To help enhance the lives of people in need such as children who have experienced abuse or neglect, patients undergoing chemotherapy or other difficult medical treatments, and military veterans and their families who are struggling To cope with the effects of wartime military service. Studies have found that aat lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and enhances a patient's ability To achieve physical and psychological wellness. Military dogs military working dogs First entered the service in 1942 To Serve in the army's k-9 corps. Today, these dogs are still playing an active role in searching for explosives and seizing enemies. Military working dogs have been used by the u.s. armed forces since world war i. In world war ii, 436 scout dogs walked combat patrols overseas, often detecting the enemy at 1,000 yards, long before the enemy became aware of them. Dogs continued To Serve with distinction in other conflicts, such as korea, where the army used about 1,500 dogs, primarily for guard duty. During the vietnam war, nearly 4,000 dogs were employed and, officially, 281 were killed in action. Today's conflicts include dogs at every level, still serving our country, helping To protect our troops. Emerging hero and shelter dogs just as our understanding of animal behavior and science is ever expanding, so too do the amazing stories of the human animal bond in action. Dogs in this category can be nominated for doing heroic deeds, large or small; for overcoming difficult odds; or by having a remarkable rescue story like the millions of homeless dogs in shelters, on the streets, or needing help from unfavorable situations. Whether it was a second chance and a new "leash" on life or just a perfect fit that was meant To be, these dogs highlight what it means To be man's best friend.after voting by the American public, winners in each category are honored at the star-studded American Humane hero dog awards gala in palm beach, florida.this popular, yearly national campaign draws hundreds of courageous canines from across the country, more than a million votes by the American public, and four billion media impressions, including features by nbc nightly news with lester holt kid's edition, today show and people magazine all culminating in a celebrity-studded, national television broadcast. American Humane sanctuary during fiscal year 2024, American Humane purchased a 14.2-acre property in palm city, Florida, as the new home of the American Humane sanctuary. Following the sale of the original west palm beach property, all operations transitioned To the new location.strategically located in palm city, the sanctuary is home To several key programs: pups4patriots: the new facility will host American Humane's First residential training program, helping veterans receive service dogs faster. Graduates will also have opportunities for advanced training in this therapeutic environment. Animal rescue: the sanctuary will train American Humane (ah) First responders To deploy To natural disasters worldwide. Rescue vehicles will be stationed on-site for tours and educational purposes. Children's Humane education: educational programs, potentially featuring animal interactions, will include the award-winning be kind To animals curriculum and chicken soup for the soul teaching materials.in addition, the sanctuary features state-of-the-art facilities currently under renovation, including: multi-species barn and farm paddocks: rescue animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, cows, ducks, and more, will be cared for in a multi-species farm setting. Veterinary triage center: located in the 9,000 sq. Ft. multi-species barn, the center will provide First aid and critical care for animals. Betty white healing garden: a life-sized bronze sculpture of betty white will welcome visitors, honoring her legacy as a supporter of American humane.the sanctuary serves as a retreat for wounded veterans, where they will be paired with service dogs, and a rescue center offering hope, healing, and transformative experiences. This innovative Humane home will benefit animals, veterans, and advocates for generations, showcasing American Humane's commitment To lifesaving services and education.
American Humane pet provider program pets have always held a special place in our lives, and it's important To consider not only where they come from but also who cares for them before they join our families. Pet providers who meet American Humane's rigorous certification standards set themselves apart, giving pet owners confidence that their pets were treated humanely throughout the process.american Humane's pet provider program assesses the condition, well-being and welfare of small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and aquatic life at pet provider locations and animal suppliers. American Humane certified brands prioritize animal welfare, following science-based practices verified through independent audits.the Humane treatment of all animals is a core principle at American Humane. When consumers see the American Humane certified seal, they can trust their pets have received high levels of care and attention.following rigorous audits administered by American Humane auditors, certified pet providers are awarded the coveted American Humane certified seal of approval. Animal welfare standards are regularly reviewed by the program's scientific advisory committee, an international group of animal science experts, veterinarians, and ethicists. Certified providers should be commended for proactively taking the next step To ensure animals in their care are treated humanely and ethically.american Humane working animals program the American Humane working animals program helps verify the welfare and Humane treatment of animals wherever they live and work. American Humane's working animals certification program audit assesses the condition, well-being, and welfare of domesticated animals trained To perform certain specialized tasks, which may appear at public demonstrations, performances and/or appearances.the program enforces rigorous, science-based, and comprehensive criteria for animal welfare, reviewed by an independent scientific advisory committee composed of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, veterinary medicine, and animal behavior.areas of certification evaluation include but are not limited To housing and environment, animal health, appearance and behavior, nutrition, veterinary care, and cleanliness/sanitation. In addition To permanent housing facilities, American Humane assesses transport, public performances, social interactions with the public, safe and stimulating temporary environments, and evidence of thorough preparation and protocols established To handle medical care.american Humane in actionamerican Humane in action is a tv series that provides viewers with a firsthand look at how their groundbreaking programs affect change in the real world, from animals rescued from perilous disasters To endangered species on the brink of extinction. Hosted by American Humane ceo and president dr. robin ganzert, the series features hollywood stars four-legged and two-legged leading conservationists, frontline rescue workers, those battling To keep our country safe and those who ensure a Humane food supply. Each episode shines a spotlight on a different program area: rescue, military, conservation, hollywood, and farm, with an overarching theme emphasizing how we continue To strengthen the human-animal bond. Watch American Humane in action on our youtube channel. Public education, prevention, and outreachas the leader on animal welfare issues since 1877, news organizations are constantly seeking america Humane's expertise and commentary. They work with thousands of local, regional, and national news groups To get out lifesaving information and spread our message of compassion, caring and hope. Highlights of our educational outreach include: reaching the world with our Humane messages, reaching millions of people, encouraging them To be kind To animals and providing them with tools To create a more compassionate world. Generating major news stories on helping animals carried by prominent national publications, newspapers, magazines, and news stations. Touching millions through a national television broadcast of the 13th annual American Humane hero dog awards on a&e and fyi networks in 2023, and in previous years on hallmark channel with its 80 million+ subscribers. This annual campaign highlights the life-changing, life-saving power of the bond between animals and people. Our award-winning national television and radio psas and billboard campaigns are reaching millions of people each year with lifesaving information, messages of compassion, and practical ways the public can support Humane farming, Humane conservation of the world's remarkable and endangered creatures, veterans needing service dogs, and animals caught in disasters and cruelty cases. To encourage people To rescue, adopt and save animals in need, American Humane ran billboards across the country reminding people To "be a hero." Delving into various animal welfare topics, robin's nest is a podcast hosted by dr. robin ganzert. The show features conversations with celebrities, veterinarians, conservationists, and other experts. Each episode focuses on different facets of animal protection, conservation efforts, and heartwarming animal stories, all within about 25 minutes per episode. In its debut season it was ranked as one of the top 25 podcasts in the culture and society genre and it is slated for a season 2 that will be accessible on all podcast streaming platforms.

Grants made by American Humane - First To Serve

GranteeGrant descriptionAmount
Palm Beach Freedom InstituteEthiopian Outreach$25,000
Maui Humane SocietyPost Fire Animal Care$10,000

Who funds American Humane - First To Serve

Grants from foundations and other nonprofits
GrantmakerDescriptionAmount
Sag-Aftra Producers Industry Advancement and Cooperative FundGeneral Support$7,663,401
Aftra Industry Cooperative FundGeneral Support$736,447
Leaders in Furthering Education (LIFE)Protection of Children and Animals From Cruelty, Abuse and Neglect, and To Serve As Their Voice.$450,000
...and 72 more grants received totalling $10,509,155

Financials for American Humane - First To Serve

RevenuesFYE 06/2024
Total grants, contributions, etc.$19,888,615
Program services$3,267,205
Investment income and dividends$596,162
Tax-exempt bond proceeds$0
Royalty revenue$3,193,833
Net rental income$0
Net gain from sale of non-inventory assets$1,084,973
Net income from fundraising events$36,743
Net income from gaming activities$0
Net income from sales of inventory$0
Miscellaneous revenues$15,836
Total revenues$28,083,367
Data update history
June 29, 2025
Received grants
Identified 10 new grant, including a grant for $55,651 from Thomas Lyle Williams Trust XXXXX4009
March 27, 2025
Posted financials
Added Form 990 for fiscal year 2024
March 26, 2025
Received grants
Identified 14 new grant, including a grant for $7,663,401 from Sag-Aftra Producers Industry Advancement and Cooperative Fund
March 22, 2025
Used new vendors
Identified 5 new vendors, including , , , , and
December 22, 2024
Received grants
Identified 5 new grant, including a grant for $200,000 from Brunckhorst Foundation
Nonprofit Types
Social advocacy organizationsAnimal organizationsAnimal sheltersCharities
Issues
Animals
Characteristics
LobbyingFundraising eventsOperates internationallyNational levelReceives government fundingEndowed supportCommunity engagement / volunteeringGala fundraisersFundraising races, competitions, and tournamentsTax deductible donationsAccepts online donations
General information
Address
1400 16th St NW 360
Washington, DC 20036
Metro area
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
County
District of Columbia, DC
Website URL
americanhumane.org/ 
Phone
(202) 677-4227
Facebook page
americanhumane 
Twitter profile
@americanhumane 
IRS details
EIN
84-0432950
Fiscal year end
June
Taxreturn type
Form 990
Year formed
1877
Eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions (Pub 78)
Yes
Categorization
NTEE code, primary
D20: Animal Protection and Welfare
NAICS code, primary
813312: Environment, Conservation, and Wildlife Organizations
Parent/child status
Independent
California AB-488 details
AB 488 status
May Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes
Charity Registration status
Current
FTB status revoked
Not revoked
AG Registration Number
002547
FTB Entity ID
1888564
AB 488 data last updated ("as-of") date
2025-08-06
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