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Animal Defenders Event Series: Learn, Act and Advocate for Animals
Join us for a year-long series of engaging advocacy events designed to inspire compassion, spark action, and empower you to make a difference for animals and the environment. Each event offers a unique experience, from film and storytelling to hands-on learning and interactive fun, but together they build a powerful journey toward becoming a stronger advocate for wildlife. We hope you can join us for the full series and grow with us throughout the year!
Ages: 12 and up are welcome to join us for all events!
Fee: All events are free. Donations to continue our advocacy efforts are welcome and appreciated and can be made on the RSVP page.
Pre-registration is required and space is limited for most events- so be sure to RSVP. We hope to see you there!
Questions? Email advocates@hshv.org
New This Year: Collect Your Animal Defender Buttons!
For our 2026 series, attendees can earn a special Animal Defender button at each event. Collect them throughout the year and add them to your Animal Defender lanyard (available at each event) as a visible symbol of your commitment to animals and lifelong compassion.
In-Person Events
Please use the RSVP button on this page to register for in-person events.
March 27 - 5:30–7:30pm – Film Screening: My Octopus Teacher
HSHV Education Center, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor
Kick off our advocacy series with an inspiring screening of the Academy Award–winning documentary My Octopus Teacher. This visually stunning and deeply moving film explores the extraordinary bond between a filmmaker and a wild octopus, reminding us of our profound connection to the natural world. A perfect starting point for a year of learning, reflection, and advocacy.
FULL - May 7 - 5:30pm–7pm – Celebrating Jane Goodall: An Evening with Author Jim Ottaviani
With special guest, Mayor of Ann Arbor, Christopher Taylor
HSHV’s Education Center, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall and her lifelong advocacy for animals with special guest Jim Ottaviani, author of Primates. Jim will share insights into Jane Goodall’s work and lead a discussion on how each of us—at any age—can take meaningful steps to make the world a better place for animals, people, and the planet. We will also welcome a special guest, Christopher Taylor, Mayor of Ann Arbor.
June 4th - 5pm - 6:30pm Michigan Animal Protection Laws
HSHV's Education Center, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor
Ever wondered how Michigan protects animals, who steps in when something goes wrong, and how well the system works? Join Attorneys for Animals for a frank evaluation of Michigan's animal protection laws, the agencies that enforce them, and how cruelty and neglect is addressed in the state. We'll break down key legal terms, explore the difference between neglect and cruelty, and touch on how federal law fits in. It's an engaging overview of Michigan's animal protection laws, highlighting what's working and what advocates still need to do.
September 24 - 4:00–6:00 PM – Wildlife-Friendly Homes Kickoff Event
Olson Park Pavilion, 1515 Dhu Varren Road, Ann Arbor
Learn how to make your own space more welcoming to wildlife! Join our experts for an interactive, family-friendly event where you’ll discover simple ways to support local wildlife and create habitats at home. Enjoy hands-on activities like making items that help wildlife thrive, and help us officially kick off our Wildlife-Friendly Homes Program.
Leashed dogs who are comfortable with other dogs and meeting new people are welcome!
November 19 - 6–8pm – Advocacy Mystery Game: Year-End Celebration
HSHV Education Center, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor
Wrap up the year with an advocacy-themed mystery game that’s equal parts fun and thought-provoking. Work together to solve clues, uncover the mystery, and reflect on the impact we can have when we advocate for animals. This interactive evening is a celebratory and engaging conclusion to our 2026 advocacy series.
Virtual Events
Please use the link for each event below to register.
April 23 - 12pm–1pm – Advocacy Skills Workshop: Communicating with Legislators
Virtual Event: Use this link to register and join
Want to feel more confident speaking up for animals? This practical, beginner-friendly workshop will walk you through how to effectively communicate with legislators and make your voice count. We’ll cover the best ways to reach out (from emails and calls to coffee hours and town halls), what to expect when you make contact, how to clearly share your message, and tips for crafting compelling, effective advocacy messaging. Whether you’re brand new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will help you take action with confidence.
September 10, 12-1pm– Advocacy Skills Workshop: From Idea to Law: Understanding the Legislative Process
Virtual Event: Use this link to register and join
Ever wondered what actually happens to a bill once it’s proposed? This easy-to-follow workshop breaks down the legislative process in plain language. We’ll cover the different types of bills and resolutions, how and why bills are introduced, what happens behind the scenes before and after introduction, and the roles sponsors, cosponsors, and committees play along the way. You’ll also learn how to track a bill’s progress, understand amendments, and read a proposed version with confidence—perfect for anyone looking to better understand how advocacy turns into real policy change.