About
Valley River Humane Society
Where Hope Grows & Love Flows
Our Story
50+ Years of Second Chances
Valley River Humane Society began in 1969 when a group of compassionate neighbors in Cherokee County decided enough was enough—too many animals were suffering, and our community could do better. What started as the Cherokee Humane Society in a humble facility has grown into something we’re incredibly proud of and continue to grow.
In 1997, Lillian Clifford saw our potential and believed in our mission. Her generous gift allowed us to purchase 12.5 acres in Marble and build a shelter where animals could truly thrive while waiting for their forever families. Today, that dream is alive in every wagging tail and contented purr.
Our Mission in Action
Located in Marble, NC, we serve the families and animals of Cherokee and Clay counties, welcoming about 2,000 dogs and cats each year. Through our dedicated staff and volunteers, each one gets the care, love, and time they need to find their perfect match.
We rely on Cherokee and Clay counties just as they rely on us; donations and fundraising allow us to continue our mission, as well as our partnerships with those who share our values for saving animals. Together, we create the village that is Valley River Humane Society.
We couldn’t do what we do without our partners, from establishing connections with thoughtful training to animal transportation to alleviate overcrowding in the shelter. At the end of the day, the animals and their well-being are our mission.
We partner with president and trainer Tracey Scott of Graham County K9, Inc. Tracey offers a wide variety of programs for puppies and dogs, building lasting partnerships through a neuroscience-based approach for maximum results. Valley River dogs love Tracey!
Many of our animals find homes right here in our mountain community. For dogs who need a wider search, we partner with respected shelters and the Shelter Dog Transport Alliance to ensure they find the right family, wherever that may be.
Almost every week, The Shelter Dog Transport Alliance partners with over a dozen county shelter systems that experience overcrowding. When those shelters are at capacity, they safely transport at-risk dogs and cats to Northern rescue partners, where forever homes anxiously await them. Because of this important partnership, animals are given another chance to find homes.
We Can't Do This Alone
Every animal we save is a community effort,
and you make the difference—through adoption, fostering, volunteering, and supporting responsible pet ownership.
Together, we’re building a community where every animal is valued and every pet has a loving home.
That’s the Valley River way.
Here’s how we can work together:
- Spay and neuter your pets to prevent unwanted litters
- Speak up when you see animal cruelty or neglect
- Adopt, don’t shop—choose rescue over puppy mills and unregulated breeders
- Spread the word about the animals waiting for homes
Please Note: Valley River Humane Society can only accept relinquished pets from Cherokee and Clay Counties of North Carolina.
Valley River Humane Society Financials
At Valley River Humane Society, we believe trust is built on transparency. Every dollar you entrust to us stays right here in our community, directly supporting the animals in our care. Below, you’ll find our annual financial reports, IRS Form 990s, and detailed breakdowns of how donations are allocated across our programs.
We’re proud to operate with integrity and fiscal responsibility—keeping administrative costs low so more resources go directly to animal care, medical services, and community programs. Whether you’re considering a personal gift, exploring corporate partnership opportunities, or researching grant eligibility, these documents provide a complete picture of our financial health and the measurable impact your support creates.
Your generosity changes lives. The reports below show you exactly how.
What you’ll find in our reports:
- Complete revenue and expense breakdowns
- Program allocation percentages (animal care, medical services, community outreach)
- Administrative and fundraising cost ratios
- Year-over-year growth and sustainability metrics
- Grant funding sources and outcomes
2021 Form 990 & 8453-TE
2022 Form 990 & 8453-TE
2023 Form 990 & 8453-TE
2024 Form 990 & 8453-TE
VRHS Board of Directors
Don Reynolds, President
Dave Worsham, Vice President
Linda Karis Parker, Treasurer
Donna Saunders, Secretary
Barbara McMillan, Director at Large
Jeana Conley, Director at Large
Pattie Reynolds, Board Member