Frequently Asked Questions
How is Friends of JAS different from Joint Animal Services?
We are the nonprofit fundraising partner for Joint Animal Services, our local animal shelter. We exist solely to support Joint Animal Services’s work. Our vision is that Friends of JAS will help shelter staff get more funds for lifesaving services, equipment, and supplies they need to save more pets’ lives and to help the people in our community who own pets but are in need of some temporary assistance to keep those pets healthy.
If you want to adopt a pet, please DO visit Joint Animal Services! You can see the shelter’s hours, location and available pets at www.jointanimalservices.com.
Why wouldn’t I just donate directly to Joint Animal Services?
Donations directly to Joint Animal Services are appreciated, since caring for thousands of animals each year routinely outstrips available resources, particularly since they are committed to continuing to reduce the euthanasia rate. Every gift made to the shelter helps ensure more resources are available to continue healing animals with treatable conditions and to improve animal care in our community.
Our nonprofit offers more flexibility, however, since it is not encumbered by the same procurement restrictions that governments (Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater and unincorporated Thurston County) must adhere to, such as spending limits and pre-approved vendors which can often also result in significant time delays. While our advisory board is prudent with our resources, we are able to respond quickly when needs arise to make an immediate impact for our pets and community.
How can I donate to Friends of JAS to help the animals at Joint Animal Services?
You can make a secure donation through this website by clicking the Donate button. If you would prefer to make a donation by some other means, such as a check, please contact us to make arrangements.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, your donation is tax-deductible! Friends of JAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so all contributions are eligible for tax deductions. Thank you for your support!
Why does Joint Animal Services need private donations since it already receives government funding from Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater and unincorporated Thurston County?
Municipalities must balance many other needs, from public safety to public health, transportation, libraries, parks, utilities, and administrative services. They have supported significant improvements in its sheltering operations in the past few years, but additional resources are necessary to treat neglected, abandoned, abused, and injured pets. And the current facility is very old with limited space for its growing population and out-of-date or limited utilities.
However, did you know that plans are underway for a new animal shelter? Friends of JAS will be seeking donations to contribute to this effort, too.