Honoring Dr. Jane Goodall: A Legacy of Compassion That Inspires CARE Humane Society

At CARE Humane Society, we believe every animal matters—and in many ways, this belief is rooted in the legacy of one of the greatest champions for animals, Dr. Jane Goodall.

Jane Goodall (1934–2025) was more than a scientist. She was a visionary who changed the way the world views animals and our responsibility toward them. In 1960, she began her groundbreaking research on wild chimpanzees in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania. By living among them, she revealed their emotional depth, social bonds, and even their ability to use tools—discoveries that reshaped the scientific community and, more importantly, awakened global empathy for animals.

In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute, and later launched Roots & Shoots, a youth-led program that continues to empower young people worldwide to take action for animals, people, and the environment. She dedicated her life not only to science but to advocacy—helping end invasive chimpanzee research, fighting the illegal wildlife trade, and inspiring laws that protect animals.

Her message was simple yet profound: animals are not “things,” but beings with lives that matter.

As Jane once said:

• “Only if we understand, can we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, shall all be saved.”

• “Each one of us matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.”

Her Legacy in Our Community

Jane Goodall’s work resonates deeply with what we strive for here at CARE Humane Society. While her focus was on chimpanzees and wildlife, her message applies just as strongly to the cats, dogs, and other animals who come through our shelter doors.

Her legacy reminds us that:

• Responsible pet ownership is compassion in action. Our pets are not property; they are family members who need love, medical care, training, and protection.

• Education creates empathy. Like Goodall, we work to teach our community—especially children—the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect.

• Safe spaces save lives. Just as sanctuaries protect chimpanzees, our shelter provides safety, care, and the chance for a new life through adoption.

• Every choice matters. From choosing adoption over buying, to spaying and neutering, to supporting local shelters, small actions add up to big change.

Carrying the Torch

Dr. Goodall once said: “The greatest danger to our future is apathy.” At CARE Humane Society, we carry her message forward by fighting against indifference and standing for the animals who cannot speak for themselves.

Whether you adopt a pet, volunteer your time, donate to our mission, or simply spread the word about responsible pet ownership, you are part of her legacy. You are part of the movement to keep animals safe, loved, and respected.

Because, as Dr. Goodall reminded us, “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you.” Together, let’s make that impact one of compassion.

✨ To honor Dr. Jane Goodall’s life and work, we invite our community to recommit to kindness—for our pets, for our shelter animals, and for all creatures who share our world.