We hope to see you on the next Maddie's Community Conversation on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 11am PT / 2pm ET for "From Kitchen to Community," a conversation with @Jay Garza (He/They), Engagement Liaison for the BIPOC in Animal Well-Being Collective.
This conversation explores how a foundation in culinary service, centered on listening, responsiveness, and meaningful experiences, evolved into a broader commitment to community-centered work.
What began as a focus on serving individuals through food grew into a deeper understanding of service as a tool for impact. That lens now informs Jay's approach to animal welfare, where he works to bridge gaps between people, resources, and care. By centering listening and intention, Jay aims to meet both human and animal needs in a way that is responsive and accessible.
Ultimately, this journey reflects a shift from serving meals to serving communities.
This session is ideal for adoptions and foster staff & volunteers, return to home & intake prevention staff, veterinary teams, marketing & communications staff, and shelter leadership - but all are welcome.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
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Service is a mindset, not a role-it can evolve and expand across different fields.
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Listening and responsiveness are critical to building trust and meeting real needs.
- Sustainable impact happens when we bridge gaps between people and the support they need.
Don't forget! Maddie's Fund will be giving away up to $10,000 in grants each month! You can enter for a chance to win each time you attend a call or watch it on demand during the month by completing the monthly giveaway drawing entry form.
Register for Community Conversations hosted via Zoom.
🧠 Got Topic or Speaker Suggestions?
We want to hear your ideas! If there's a topic you're curious about or a speaker you'd love to hear from, please share your suggestions with us on our Community Conversations Suggestions thread.
Looking forward to being in community with you!
#AccesstoCare#CommunityPartnerships*#Diversity,Equity,InclusionandJustice#EducationandTraining------------------------------
Sheila Kouhkan
Senior Education Specialist
Maddie's Fund
CA
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