Fall, 2011

As the United States and global economies continue to struggle, so too, do numerous humane education programs. We have heard from many members who are experiencing department cuts or have concerns that cuts may be coming soon.

Through article submissions to various publications and presentations at regional and national conferences, the APHE Board is working to raise awareness of humane education, its benefits and why it is worth the investment. We continue to build relationships with industry leaders, including the Society for Animal Welfare Administrators, to be a voice for humane education.

Our first article “Is Humane Education an Endangered Species?” was recently published in The Latham Letter (Volume 32, Number 3;). We describe the challenges facing and the value of humane education as well as a model designed to help it thrive. The article in its entirety will be available in a few months at www.Latham.org. APHE members have access to the article in the “Files” section of the APHE e-mail listserv at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/aphe/ (sign in to your Yahoo! account or create one). The complete Latham Letter issue will also be available at the 2012 APHE National Conference in Walnut Creek, California, March 1-2, 2012.

In addition to joining the “call to action” outlined in the article, APHE members can help promote humane education in their locale, grow professionally and strengthen our field. We need your help!

• Invite colleagues to become APHE members
• Host an APHE Regional Workshop
• Actively participate in APHE’s e-mail listserv, national conferences and regional workshops
• Take advantage of APHE member benefits – discounts on continuing education, materials, online “Resources” section and more!

Learn more in the APHE EZone. And if you aren't yet a member, we welcome you to join us today! See the Join/Renew section for all of the member benefits.

–Susan Helmink, APHE President