A student-led organization is working closely with Rita B. Huff Humane Society, Walker County’s only no-kill shelter, to lend helping hands.

Kats in Support of Shelters (K.I.S.S.) is a student-led organization at Sam Houston State University that aims to raise awareness, care and support for animal shelters on campus.

“We are a bunch of animal lovers,” K.I.S.S. president Morgan Richardson said.

Rita B. Huff’s shelter opened in 1986. It was named after the late Dr. Rita B. Huff, who was a professor and chairman of the Accounting Department at SHSU.

Huff used her ranch as a personal shelter, where she nursed strays back to health and rehomed them. Her love for animals still lives in the community, with K.I.S.S. members continuing the tradition.

Rita B. Huff Humane Society recently moved into a brand-new location at 1495 Veterans Memorial Parkway in west Huntsville.

As an organization, K.I.S.S. provides volunteers to assist the shelter and raise awareness for pets to encourage adoption. Volunteering opportunities include playing with cats and spending time with dogs.

“We like to be present and make them feel less isolated,” Richardson said. The organization helps change lives for the animals while also making a difference for students. K.I.S.S. is an opportunity for students who want to support, care for and rehome pets—and in return, receive unconditional love.

K.I.S.S. holds two meetings a month, including general information meetings and socials. They also aim to host a bake sale once a semester, where they feature an adoptable pet.

All profits go to Rita B. Huff Humane Society directly or to shelter necessities.

Students who wish to join the organization must join the group’s OrgLink, where they will receive an invitation to a GroupMe channel. Prospective members are required to register as volunteers through Rita B. Huff and attend volunteer orientation before assisting at the shelter.