In 1924, a group of eight prominent women met on a porch in Palm Beach to decide what to do about the ongoing problem of animals left behind by winter visitors returning to the North. From that simple start emerged a league of dedicated people helping animals, and by 1925, they were incorporated as the Animal Rescue League.
From that informal porch meeting to today, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League has grown to serve over 35,000 animals in Palm Beach County annually. No longer a small operation, the Peggy Adams campus includes the Jane and Robert Grace Pavilion which houses a state-of-the-art Pet Resource Center and Center for Veterinary Care, the Lesly S. Smith Pet Adoption Center, the Berman Memorial Pet Gardens, the Raber Training Pavilion, the historical Dome buildings, and even a bone-shaped lake with a walking path.
With over 100 employees, including six full-time veterinarians, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League has expanded their services beyond adoptions. The organization offers a public clinic for low cost Spay/Neuter surgeries and preventative vaccines, free TNVR (Trap Neuter Vaccinate Return) for community cats, Safety Net services that includes the Peggy’s Pantry community pet food bank, foster program, humane education, and much more.
“Palm Beach County has been an essential part of the formation and growth of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League since its very start. Without the unwavering support and passion from our community, we would not be celebrating this huge milestone today” says Sue Berry, CEO of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League. “As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we are excited to build upon our rich legacy and continue our mission with renewed vigor and passion. Together, we are building a more humane world.”
As the organization enters their centennial year in 2025, they look to honor the past and celebrate the future. A full calendar of community events and more will be announced after their commencement celebration at the 53rd annual Christmas Ball on December 12, 2024. These celebrations will not only honor the organization’s deep roots in Palm Beach County, but also serve as an opportunity to engage with the community, inspire new partnerships, and mobilize support for its ongoing work.
For more information about Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League and its centennial celebrations, please visit peggyadams.org, call 561-946-7551 or email development@peggyadams.org.
