HENDERSON, Kentucky – On Saturday, New Hope Animal Rescue marked its 18th anniversary with a family‑friendly reunion that brought dozens of adopted pets back to the shelter where they first found homes. The event ran from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering former adopters a chance to reconnect with the animals and the volunteers who cared for them.
Founder reflects on the shelter’s mission
“It’s our eighteenth anniversary, and we’re also having like a reunion with that little celebration out here today,” said Paula Hawkins, founder and director of New Hope Animal Rescue. “We’re getting to see a lot of our animals that were adopted throughout the years, and it’s awesome.”
Hawkins described the sight of former rescue animals returning with their own families as “overwhelming” and a reminder of why the shelter persists through tough days. “We love it. It’s what keeps us going. Days are hard here sometimes, and it’s tough, but it’s days like this that keeps us in there doing what we do, so it makes it all worthwhile,” she added.
From humble beginnings to a thriving volunteer operation
Eighteen years ago, Hawkins and a small group of community members opened New Hope as a no‑kill alternative to the local humane society, aiming to ease overcrowding and give animals a second chance. “We thought maybe a no‑kill shelter here in Henderson would be a good idea,” Hawkins recalled. “We didn’t know if it would work or not. But thanks to our community and our supporters, it’s been wonderful, and we’ve just continued to grow.”
Today the shelter cares for an estimated 700 to 800 animals annually, many of whom are injured, neglected or abused. The organization operates entirely on volunteers, a point Hawkins emphasized with pride: “We’re pretty proud of that. I have some very dedicated volunteers, and as you see out here, they all love animals, and we just work together like a family.”
Community vendors and activities add to the celebration
The anniversary event featured several local vendors, including Old Fashioned Ice Cream & Concessions, Beautiful Blooms, Duncan Deco, Brooks & Jay, Gather and Gift, and The Dairette. Attendees could pose at a photo booth, purchase commemorative T‑shirts, and buy tickets for a half‑pot raffle supporting the shelter’s ongoing programs.
This year marked only the second time the celebration was open to the public. “We did it last year just quietly because we wanted to make a trial run,” Hawkins explained. “But this year we advertised more and got a few more people involved, and it’s been great. We’re going to continue to do it every year. Can’t wait to hit that twenty‑mark.”
Looking ahead
New Hope Animal Rescue continues to rely on the generosity of Henderson residents and the dedication of its volunteer base. As the shelter approaches two decades of service, Hawkins remains optimistic about its future, emphasizing that community support will keep the no‑kill mission thriving for years to come.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
