Foundation FAQ

+ What is the Denton Animal Support Foundation?

DASF is a 501(c)3 public charity exempt from Federal tax and a nonprofit corporation chartered in the State of Texas. Our mission is to save more Denton area animals. The foundation’s purpose is to support the Linda McNatt Animal Care & Adoption Center (LMAC&AC) and local animal welfare initiatives through: 1) fundraising for programs and initiatives and 2) marketing and public awareness. Learn more here.

+ Does DASF operate the Denton Animal Shelter?

No, DASF does not operate the Linda McNatt Animal Care & Adoption Center/City of Denton Shelter. DASF does not operate the shelter and is not involved in shelter management. DASF is not involved in policy, procedures, or decisions concerning the shelter. Questions concerning the shelter or shelter pets must be directed to the shelter. Contact Animal Services at (940) 349-7594 or AnimalServices@cityofdenton.com.

+ What is the relationship between DASF and the Linda McNatt Animal Care & Adoption Center?

DASF is a separate organization from the Denton Animal Shelter. DASF is a 501(c)3 public charity exempt from Federal income tax. Thus donations to the foundation may be deductible under the IRS code (consult your tax advisor). DASF is a majority volunteer organization with one paid staff member – an Executive Director. Office space is donated. DASF is NOT located at the shelter. DASF receives no government funding and relies solely on community members to support our programs.

The shelter is owned and operated by the City of Denton. During 2009 -2011, DASF raised over $2.2 million as a grant to the City toward the construction of the new shelter, which opened in 2015. The foundation continues to support programs and facility needs at the shelter that focus on pet adoptions, wellness and quality of care.

DASF is a partner with the City of Denton, under a legal agreement, providing funding to the shelter for pet programs and other needs.

+ Does DASF recieve government funding?

No. DASF does not receive any Federal, State, County or City funding. Operating funds are only acquired through private donations, grants, planned giving and fundraising events/solicitations.

+ Why donate to DASF and not directly to the shelter?

Any donation to help the shelter pets is always greatly appreciated no matter where the donation is made. As a public charity approved under the special IRS Code 501 section (c)3, donations to DASF are clearly considered exempt from Federal tax (if appropriate for your tax circumstances). Also, DASF is structured to maintain appropriate gift information, summaries, tax letters and receipts as required by the IRS. DASF is subject to IRS oversight, as well as the corporate laws and regulations of the State of Texas. The DASF Board of Directors is accountable for all governance and use of donor funds – and maintains a private auditor.

The Linda McNatt Animal Care & Adoption Center is operated by the City of Denton, a government entity, under the direction of the City Customer Service Department. The City is a nonprofit entity under a different IRS code but payments are not designated as exempt from Federal tax under that IRS code. Donations to the shelter directly may or may not be considered exempt on Federal tax filings (consult your tax advisor). The shelter does not have a Board of Directors and is not structured to provide tax information and receipts, but is under the oversight of City management and City Council.

+ Is DASF affiliated with the Denton Humane Society or other rescue groups?

There is no direct affiliation with Denton Humane Society or any other local groups. DASF is NOT a rescue. The foundation does not handle any pets directly. DASF is primarily a fundraising organization that raises funds, provides education and supports local animal welfare programs. DASF is a partner with the City of Denton, under a legal agreement, providing funding to the shelter for pet programs and other needs.

+ What are DASF Programs and Initiatives?

Denton Animal Support Foundation’s mission is to save more Denton area animals. We accomplish this while focusing on three major components: Education, the Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center (City of Denton Animal Shelter) and the Denton area community. Growth in both the human and pet populations in the Denton area has increased the number of pets entering the Shelter doors. The support DASF provides can be crucial to continued a high live exit rate of the municipal shelter. Learn more about our programs here.

+ How does DASF raise funds for the shelter pets and other initiatives?

Funds are raised through direct requests, social media solicitations, Facebook/Instagram, newsletters, email blasts and other marketing/PR outreach. DASF is a major participant in the annual NORTH TEXAS GIVING DAY in September, where a majority of operating funds are raised. Throughout the year, events are hosted by local businesses benefiting DASF. If you wish to host a fundraiser, please contact us: info@DentonASF.com

+ Can I volunteer for DASF?

We are always pleased to hear from interested individuals and businesses. Since DASF does not host retail events often, the need for volunteers is small.

If you are interested in volunteering at the animal shelter, email AnimalServices@cityofdenton.com.

+ How do I reach the Linda McNatt Animal Care & Adoption Center?

The shelter can be reached through the City of Denton website; or AnimalServices@cityofdenton.com or 940-349-7694 3717 N. Elm Street, Denton

+ How do I support DASF?

A donation can be mailed to: DASF, P.O. Box 486, Denton, TX 76202 OR can be made by credit card online.