CAPITAL REGION — On April 11, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society received the single largest gift in its 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.
“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,” said Ashley Jeffrey Bouck, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society’s CEO.
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.”
During the April 11 presentation, an array of elected officials were present including Representative Paul Tonko, Senator Jim Tedisco, Assemblyman John McDonald, representatives for Assemblywoman Pat Fahey and Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, Albany County District Attorney David Soares, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly, Colonie Town Supervisor Peter Crummey, and Florencia Feleder, who was in attendance representing Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, but did not speak. 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 Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (renamed The Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center) 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.
Formed in 2020, Business for Good’s goal is to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support. BFG has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. To learn more, visit www.businessforgood.org
