 |
|
| 2008 winner Rosemary Gordon accepts her award from HSI CEO Andrew Rowen.© HSI |
|
Nothing is more powerful than an individual acting out of his conscience, thus helping to bring the collective conscience to life.—Norman Cousins
Humane Society International could think of no more apt description than Norman Cousins' words for its Award for Extraordinary Commitment and Achievement.
The award, presented annually at The HSUS's Animal Care Expo, recognizes individual animal protectionists throughout the world—particularly those in developing countries—whose sensitivity and compassion have led them to exceptional levels of bravery and self-sacrifice as they strive to mitigate and prevent animal suffering due to neglect, cruelty, and exploitation. Our goal is to inspire and encourage others on the path toward reverence for all life, so much needed in the world today.
Award recipients are selected by a small committee of HSUS/HSI staff knowledgeable about international animal issues. HSI's executive director serves as committee chair. Along with an engraved plaque, recipients receive a modest monetary gift.
The HSI award was inaugurated on March 12, 2004 at The HSUS's Animal Care Expo in Dallas, where it was presented to Estelle Raballand, director of the Centre de Conservation pour Champanzees in Guinea, West Africa.
In 2005, the HSI Award for Extraordinary Commitment and Achievement was given to the Zimbabwe National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The award was presented by Humane Society International Chief Executive Officer Andrew Rowan at the 2005 Animal Care Expo in Atlanta, Georgia. ZNSPCA Chairperson Bernice Dyer accepted the award on the organization's behalf.
The 2006 award was presented to Princess Elizabeth de Croy, the founder of HSI Animal Advocate, Defense et Protection des Animaux and the Refuge de Thiernay.
In 2007, HSI selected veterinarian Dr. Jack Reese with the Help in Suffering animal care center in India to receive the award.
Rosemary Gordon, for her work helping equines in Colán, Peru, received the award in 2008.
