In 1899, Rose Fay Thomas, wife of Chicago Symphony Orchestra founder Theodore Thomas, established The Anti-Cruelty Society and forever changed the landscape of animal welfare throughout the Chicago region. Since that time, the Society has endured as Chicago's oldest and largest open admission animal welfare organization, one that provides a wide breadth of programs that save the lives of thousands of animals each year. A certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the recipient of a four-star Charity Navigator rating, The Anti-Cruelty Society’s mission is to build a community of caring by helping pets and educating people. 

Today, The Anti-Cruelty Society remains the oldest and the largest open admission animal welfare organization in Chicago. All animals are welcome at the Society every day of the year. They never turn an animal away from their doors. Ever.  And once an animal is admitted, they can stay as long as it takes to find their forever home.

However, the care that The Anti-Cruelty Society provides to animals in need is only possible through the friendship of the community. I hope that you will support me and support "Bark in the Park 2019." Your generosity will ensure that thousands of abandoned and neglected animals will find hope, comfort, and healing this year.