Humane Association of Warren County
230 Cook Rd, Lebanon OH, 45036
Elijah Hurley (Eli)
He/Him/His
Eli Hurley has been with the Humane Association of Warren County (HAWC) since December 2016, bringing a passion for animal welfare, community engagement, and strategic growth to the organization. Originally hired for the front office, Eli quickly identified gaps in HAWC’s social media and marketing presence. Through self-taught skills in website development and digital marketing, Eli transformed the organization's brand, shifting public perception from that of a traditional "dog pound" to a modern, community-focused animal shelter. With a strong emphasis on transparency, communication, and outreach, Eli has helped implement numerous community programs that did not previously exist at HAWC, strengthening the shelter’s connection to the people and animals it serves.
Before joining HAWC, Eli worked as a private 911 dispatcher, where he became CSAA 5 Diamond Certified in customer service and de-escalation. This background in crisis management and clear communication has been invaluable in leading the shelter and advocating for both animals and the community.
A long-time Warren County resident, Eli has lived in the area since the fourth grade and is a proud graduate of Carlisle High School and MVCTC. Passionate about education and the future of veterinary care, he serves on the board for the MVCTC and Scarlet Oaks Veterinary Technology programs, helping to guide and support the next generation of professionals in the field.
Under Eli’s leadership, HAWC continues to grow as a vital resource for Warren County, striving to create a more compassionate and engaged community for both animals and the people who love them.
The Humane Association of Warren County (HAWC)
The Humane Association of Warren County, founded in 1973, has been a cornerstone of animal welfare in southwest Ohio for over five decades. Established with a mission to protect and advocate for the rights of animals, the organization has grown from a small local effort into a full-service animal shelter and resource hub. It is dedicated to providing a safe haven for homeless, abused, and neglected animals while working tirelessly to educate the public on responsible pet ownership.
The shelter also places a strong emphasis on humane education, reaching thousands of people annually through workshops, school visits, and public events. These programs aim to teach compassion, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of spaying/neutering to reduce the number of unwanted animals.
As part of its ongoing commitment to animal welfare, the Humane Association of Warren County regularly hosts adoption events, fundraising initiatives, and volunteer opportunities. Its annual events, such as the Paws on Parade and the Fur Ball Gala, not only help raise funds to support the shelter’s operations but also foster a sense of community among animal lovers in the region.
In recent years, the organization has adapted to the growing demand for animal services by launching innovative programs like the low-cost spay/neuter clinic, designed to assist families in need and address pet overpopulation. The shelter has also introduced initiatives like doggy field trips, where members of the public can take shelter dogs on outings, giving them a break from the shelter environment and increasing their chances of adoption.
Throughout its history, the Humane Association of Warren County has remained steadfast in its mission to promote animal welfare, save lives, and strengthen the bond between humans and animals. Today, it continues to serve as a vital resource for both animals and the community, offering a compassionate space where every pet receives the care, respect, and love they deserve.