Our vision at the Animal Welfare Alliance of DeKalb County is to create a future where every animal in our community receives the love, care, and respect they deserve. We envision a world where the pain and suffering of stray and abandoned animals is eradicated through our tireless efforts. By promoting TNR programs, providing affordable spay and neuter services, offering low-cost vaccine clinics, and educating our community about responsible pet ownership, we are dedicated to keeping pets with their families and preventing the heartbreaking separation that too often occurs. Through our free pet food pantry, we strive to ensure that no animal goes hungry, even in times of hardship. Together, as a compassionate team, we believe in the power of unity, empathy, and advocacy for the voiceless. Join us as we work towards a future where all animals thrive, and together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our community's precious companions.

Courtney Butler began her official career passion for animals at the age of 16 as an intern at an Allen County Veterinary clinic. From there, she worked at Pier 1 Imports and LUSH through college obtaining her Business Management degree.

The retail life was not her true calling, and Courtney returned to animal welfare at Fort Wayne Animal Control as an Animal Care Specialist,  then was elevated to the Volunteer Program Manager.

Courtney then went on to be Veterinary Practice Manager for Banfield/GMP in Fort Wayne, Carmel and Lexington. After getting married and starting a family,as well as a senior horse rescue, travel wasn't an option and longer. Courtney then went on to  manage St. Joe Center Veterinary in Fort Wayne with National Veterinary Associates.

Courtney moved to DeKalb County with her husband in 2016, and worked in local government with the Surveyor and Parks and Rec, ultimately deciding to stay home to care for the senior horse rescue and family in 2021. Prior to leaving, Courtney worked with city leadership to establish TNR ordinance and program plans.

The Butlers volunteer and tirelessly foster for Humane Fort Wayne, they have had over 200 animals in foster in their home in the last 8 years!

Courtney has heard an outcry from the public for animal resources and education. She has been compelled to come back to the field, to help the people and pets of the DeKalb community she respects and cares deeply for.

Jake Butler is the co-founder of AWA.  Without Jake, no fostering, rescuing, or progress would be happening. Jake is truly the driving force thanks to his positive, never-give-up attitude. If you ask Courtney, he is absolutely the reason for AWA coming to be.

Jake grew up in Ohio, working and living on a cattle farm. Jake began college in Fort Wayne for Information Security and then moved to Fort Wayne. Jake was then hired by a local health network and has recently achieved his 20th anniversary there. Jake chose a career in information services with healthcare because he wanted a career that impacts lives and helps people.

Jake obtained his Master's degree in Information Security and Data Assurance as a personal goal in 2019. It goes without saying, that Jake is the tech mastermind for AWA. Jake has a passion for saving lives of all kinds, including livestock, his skills and experience are invaluable.

Jake devotes his life to leaving the world better than he found it, he is committed to being a great father and husband as well as rescue for all animals in need. Jake has a passion for helping the people with the animals, Jake hopes to provide a pet food bank and free vaccine options in our community to those in need.

Jake loves his local DeKalb community and brings compassion, insight, excellent communication skills, and the best sense of humor you can ask for.