CARE was first formed in April of 1998 by local animal lovers and rescuers who felt a need to organize their efforts in order to reduce the number of animals ending up at the local pounds or shelters. By December 1998, CARE became a 501(c)(3) not for profit corporation. We are an all-volunteer, non-facility placement and education service. We are based in Carterville , Illinois but also have a foster home in upstate Batavia, Illinois to help facilitate northern Illinois adoptions.

Our Dream

is to one day have a sanctuary (Forever CARE) for all the homeless pets of Southern Illinois to live in until they find a new home. If you agree with this idea and have either land or money to help establish a sanctuary, please contact us!

Our Mission

Help reduce the overpopulation problem by an aggressive spay/neuter campaign and placing the right pet in the right home. Spay/neuter subsidizing and adoption counseling are offered to help.

Educate the general public to pet responsibility, especially the need for spay/neuter. We offer humane education programs, including bite prevention, disaster preparedness, pet owner responsibility to schools and organizations.

Rescue pets who need new homes by placing them in breed rescue or help owners find a new home when they can no longer keep their pet.