The ASPCA's mission, as stated by Henry Bergh in 1866, is \"to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As the first humane organization to be granted legal authority to investigate and make arrests for crimes against animals, we are wholly dedicated to fulfilling the ASPCA mission through nonviolent approaches. Our organization provides local and national leadership in three key areas: caring for pet parents and pets, providing positive outcomes for at-risk animals and serving victims of animal cruelty.