Many Santa Clara/Ivins residents are quietly yet passionately working to create lasting change for those who can't speak for themselves—our furry friends. One of these residents - Lois Hewitt - is a dedicated advocate for animal welfare who’s spent nearly two decades supporting Ivins No-Kill Animal Supporters (INKAS), a nonprofit organization committed to upholding the no-kill philosophy at the Santa Clara-Ivins (SCI) Animal Shelter and aiding local rescue groups. Through her efforts and those of INKAS, countless animals have found hope, health, and forever homes, reminding us all of the profound impact one person's dedication can have.

INKAS's mission is straightforward but vital: to promote and assist in implementing no-kill practices that ensure animals are treated with compassion and given every chance at adoption. Over the years, the organization has offered a range of essential services to make this vision a reality. These include behavioral training and socialization programs to boost animals' adoptability, financial aid for extraordinary medical needs—such as life-saving surgery for a dog who survived being shot in the head—and providing vaccines for both cats and dogs to guarantee only healthy pets enter new homes. INKAS also supplies microchips for easy reunions with lost owners and specialty foods like kitten replacement milk for orphaned young ones. Additionally, the group extends biannual financial support to local animal rescues, strengthening the broader network of care in our region.

Lois's journey with INKAS began shortly after she moved to Kayenta in 2007. Drawn by her deep love for animals, she started volunteering at the SCI Shelter, where she connected with INKAS members and eagerly joined their ranks. She began as a volunteer associate, advanced to the board of directors, and served as president from around 2009 until 2026. Today, she remains an active director, channeling her energy into sustaining the organization's life-changing work. "The SCI Shelter was the first municipal no-kill shelter in Utah," Lois shares, "and I wanted to help ensure it always stays that way."

What keeps Lois going? The simple yet powerful reward of knowing that INKAS helps animals receive the care they need while awaiting their perfect match. "The most rewarding part of being a member of INKAS is knowing that we help animals to be well cared for while waiting to be placed in their forever homes," she says. Through these efforts, Lois has witnessed tangible positive impacts in our community, from healthier adoptions to stronger support for rescues, fostering a more humane environment for animals in Ivins and beyond.

Looking ahead, INKAS is poised to continue its vital role, thanks to successful fundraising and the generosity of donors. The organization remains committed to providing ongoing assistance to the shelter and rescues, ensuring healthy pets find loving homes. For local residents inspired to make a difference, getting involved is easy—whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word.

To learn more about INKAS and how you can support their mission, visit inkas4pets.org. Let's follow Lois's lead and lend a hand (or paw) to those who need it most.