Who We Are

Who's Who: Supporting the Animals of Hendricks County, Indiana

Hendricks County Friends of the Shelter (HCFS), a volunteer-driven, 501(c)(3) nonprofit group dedicated to supporting the animals and staff of the Hendricks County Animal Shelter (HCAS). Think of us as the shelter's biggest cheerleaders—we strive to support the shelter with supplies, medical care, and programs to improve the lives of shelter animals while they wait for their new home!

What HCFS Does

Our primary focus is to bridge the gap between county funding and the complete needs of the animals.

Financial & Medical Support: We raise funds for medical care, enrichment supplies, and bridge the budget gap.
Community programs: We organize adoption and fundraising events.
Pet Food Pantry: We provide the Pet Food Pantry Program to help families in need keep their pets fed and in their homes.

The Who's Who: Understanding Animal Welfare in Hendricks County

Hendricks County has several dedicated animal organizations working toward the same goal: helping pets and their people. Knowing who does what helps you connect with the right group at the right time.

Hendricks County Animal Shelter (HCAS): The county-run facility for stray, abandoned, and surrendered animals. Pets remain until adopted or reunited - never euthanized for space. Note that the shelter does not have a foster program.
Hendricks County Humane Society (HCHS): A nonprofit focused on pet overpopulation prevention and helping families in need. Services include spay/neuter assistance, a pet food pantry, and education programs.
Rescues: Volunteer-run groups that rescue animals from shelters and care for them in foster homes until they're adopted. Many also accept owner surrenders, giving pets a second chance at finding a loving home. The more animals they foster, the more lives they can save by opening space in shelters.

Every organization plays an important part in caring for animals in our community!

Meet our Board Members!

President

Anita Padgett

About Me: Anita is our hands-on, “Jill of all Trades,” bringing heart to everything she does. She expertly coordinates volunteers, trains new team members, and ensures that every project runs smoothly. Anita keeps our team motivated and our mission moving forward, making a real difference in the lives of the animals we serve.

Contact: president@hcfriendsoftheshelter.org

317-451-6147

Vice President

Nevin Rudie

About Me: Nevin is the driving force behind our organization’s planning and organization. Always pushing the team to do better, he ensures every project runs efficiently and effectively. As manager of our Trader’s Buck store, Nevin has helped create an incredible income stream that directly supports the animals in our care. His dedication, vision, and leadership make a lasting impact on everything we do.

Contact: vicepresident@hcfriendsoftheshelter.org

Lisa Gold

Event Coordinator

About Me: Lisa is our extraordinary Event Coordinator, bringing organization, creativity, and dedication to every project. She has refined the template for our Pumpkins & Paws event, thinking of every detail to make it seamless for volunteers and attendees alike. With countless carefully organized boxes and well-planned event layouts, Lisa ensures that everything runs smoothly. Her passion for shelter animals shines through in everything she does, and she is wonderfully supported by her husband, Chuck, who helps tremendously behind the scenes.

Contact: events@hcfriendsoftheshelter.org

Acting Secretary

Tamara Decker

About Me: Tamara is a true “do-it-all” team member, always ready to help wherever she’s needed. Currently serving as Acting Secretary, she keeps our board organized and on track with grace and efficiency. Beyond her dedication, Tamara brings laughter, joy, and positive energy to every meeting and event. Her deep love for the animals shines through in everything she does, making her an essential and beloved part of our team.

Contact: info@hcfriendsoftheshelter.org

Board Member

Raven Gerbick

About Me: I’m a wife, mom of two, and proud long-time Hoosier. Though I grew up on the southside, I’ve called Hendricks County home for the past 10 years, and I absolutely love it here. When I’m not working full-time, spending time with my family, or caring for my own pets, I enjoy learning new skills through my board member duties. I joined the board in May 2025. I also launched Hoosier Gardens Gone Wild, LLC to sell plants that are native to Indiana, and use the proceeds to donate to animal rescue organizations.

Why I volunteer: I began walking dogs for the shelter in April 2022 and instantly fell in love with giving these animals the attention they deserve. It’s rewarding to help lighten the load for our hardworking shelter staff while giving the dogs a chance to stretch, potty, and enjoy some love. One special dog, who waited far too long for her forever home, inspired me to get more involved - and she’s now happily adopted!