A Legacy of Compassion and Care
Our Story: A Legacy of Compassion and Service
Since our founding, Lawrence Humane Society has been a cornerstone of support for the Douglas County community.
Our story begins in the 1940s with Norma Campschrader, a compassionate animal lover who envisioned a better future for pets in need. With her determination and passion, Ms. Campschrader planted the seeds for what would become the Lawrence Humane Society.
The organization had humble beginnings. A small house on Indiana Street served as the first shelter, where local police brought homeless animals. Volunteers provided care and worked tirelessly to find new homes for the animals who passed through its doors.
The idea was simple, but the need was great.
On March 26, 1951, the Douglas County Humane Society, Inc. was officially chartered, and four acres of land were purchased at our current location on East 19th Street. Seven years later, the first shelter building was constructed.
In 1963, we adopted the name Lawrence Humane Society to better reflect our mission and vision. While much has changed since our founding, the passion and love for animals that inspired Norma Campschrader continue to drive our work today.
A History of Excellence
For over 70 years, our unwavering commitment to the pets and people of Douglas County has remained steadfast. In 1966, Lawrence Humane Society gained national recognition, earning the title of “the best in the nation as a small shelter” from both the American Humane Association and the Humane Society of the United States. We were celebrated as the best shelter in Kansas and ranked among the top 16 shelters nationwide.
Over the decades, we have rescued and cared for countless animals, creating a legacy of compassion and service. We honor our founders and all those who have contributed to building the Lawrence Humane Society into what it is today.
Adapting and Growing to Serve Our Community
Through growth, new facilities, and even global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, we have evolved while staying true to our mission. Today, the Lawrence Humane Society operates an 18,000-square-foot facility that shelters and cares for more than 3,800 animals annually, serving Lawrence, Douglas County, and nearby communities.
Our commitment to placing 100% of adoptable animals into new homes is strengthened by our robust medical and behavior programs, which provide every animal in our care with the resources they need to be healthy, happy, and ready for adoption.
Since 2008, we have:
Sheltered more than 43,000 animals in need
Reunited over 5,500 lost pets with their families
Found loving, forever homes for more than 22,000 pets
