KENNEBUNK – For the sixth year in a row, the Animal Welfare Society has earned a four-star ranking from Charity Navigator, the leading independent evaluator of non-profits.

AWS received the highest possible rating, and ranking was based on fiscal responsibility, transparency and accountability.

“Attaining a four-star rating verifies that Animal Welfare Society exceeds industry standards and outperforms most charities in your area of work,” said Michael Thatcher, President and CEO of Charity Navigator in a written statement. “Only six percent of charities we evaluate have received at least six consecutive four star evaluations, indicating Animal Welfare Society outperforms most other charities in America. This exceptional designation from Charity Navigator sets Animal Welfare Society apart from its peers and demonstrates to the public its trustworthiness.”

AWS joins only 24 other charities in the state of Maine in the coveted four-star category in 2018. In addition, AWS is one of only five Maine charities to earn the designation six years in a row, joining other non-profits such as Preble Street Resource Center and the Jackson Laboratory.

“Every day, we strive to use our community’s generous support in the most effective manner,” said Abigail Smith, AWS Executive Director in a written statement. “As the only animal welfare organization in Maine to earn this four-star designation, our Charity Navigator ranking shows our supporters that we take our responsibility seriously and put all donations to use in the best way possible to support our mission.”