All timeline stories.
A Passing of the Torch
Alex Lewyt dies. Elisabeth Lewyt is named Chairperson of the Board of Directors, a position she holds until her death.
Faithful Volunteers Spark a Movement
Elisabeth Lewyt’s Pound Rescue Team grows from one volunteer to dozens, saving thousands of animals from municipal shelters.
Puppies Make Everyone Smile
Launches Shelter Pet Outreach Program (SPOT). Volunteers and associates visit nursing homes, senior citizen centers, and other sites where therapy dogs and cats bring joy and comfort to residents.
Broadening Our Reach
Humanely relocates animals from the ASPCA in New York City and other municipal shelters on Long Island to the safety of its no-kill shelter.
The Birth of Compassionate Care
Establishes small medical center on the premises.
Life Saving Movement Begins
Elisabeth Lewyt begins driving her “Love-A-Pet” van from pound to pound to rescue pets, paying $12 a piece for each dog the pounds will release.
Lewyt Family Creates Lasting Legacy
Name changes to North Shore Animal League, Inc. Alex and Elisabeth Lewyt become more involved in day-to-day operations, helping the Association regain financial stability. Lewyts recruit their neighbor, popular singer and dog-lover Perry Como, as celebrity chairman of a successful membership drive. Alex Lewyt becomes President and Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Keeping Our No-Kill Promise
As Long Island grows, the Association must choose between handling animal control and remaining no-kill. It chooses no-kill. As a result, it loses lucrative animal control contracts and suffers a serious drop in revenue.
Expansion = Limitless Opportunities
Shelter is completed; group purchases local homes to expand offices.
Building a Foundation
Acquires two lots and a house in Port Washington; begins planning shelter construction.