Humane Association of Northwestern Rhode Island

The purpose of the Humane Association of Northwestern Rhode Island is to prevent cruelty to animals, relieve suffering among animals and educate the general public on humane practices. It is the goal of HANRI, which is a non-profit 501c3 organization, to guarantee humane care and treatment for all animals needing protection in the area served by the association. It is the policy of this association to seek to return lost animals to their owners; to seek suitable homes for animals without owners; and to provide shelter for animals in emergency situations. HANRI was founded in 1978 by a group of local women over an afternoon cup of tea. They were discussing the need for an organization to help with the animal welfare problems they saw in their community. About a year later, a volunteer named Ivy Turner offered to renovate her basement into a cat shelter. Ms. Turner became the president of the humane association and ran the organization for more than 20 years. In 1998, a year before Ms. Turner's passing, Phyllis Dorr took over as president of HANRI. The organization has grown exponentially since that time - moving into a new building along with starting a humane education center, a low-cost veterinary practice and a pet supply store. Needless to say, Ivy's legacy still lives on today as we strive to make this area a better place for both animals and humans.