Leadership isn't always about having a title or being in the spotlight. It's in the everyday actions like mentoring a coworker, advocating for change, keeping your team motivated, or showing up with empathy. In animal well-being, these moments of quiet leadership often make the biggest difference.

At Maddie's Fund^®, we believe leadership happens at all levels. Throughout our 30 years, we've invested resources in supporting and celebrating leaders through programs like the Maddie's^® Executive Leadership Fellowship, the Maddie's^® Apprenticeship Program, and the Avanzino Leadership Award, which honors trailblazers in the field who are creating positive, lasting change.

This May, we want to hear from leaders like you:

🐾  What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?
🐾  Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?
🐾  Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

💬 Drop a comment to share your story on any of the questions above! Your reply enters you into this month's Cuddly prize pack giveaway, and counts toward your organization's eligibility for a $3,000 grant.

💡 Want to learn more about leadership in animal well-being?

Explore these free courses on Maddie's^® University:

• Hatching Leadership: Live Better, Work Better

• Effective Leadership in Animal Welfare

• HASS: Creating a Culture of Change in Your Organization

• Daily Decision Making and Accountability: Identifying Key Performance Indicators

• The Surprising Science of Meetings for Shelter Success
  
  

Catch up on powerful Community Conversations:

• Supported People, Supported Animals: Developing and Maintaining a Strong Team (March 2025)

• Lessons Learned: Wisdom from Animal Well-Being Leaders on Navigating Change (June 24, 2024)

• Navigating Opposing Visions Between Veterinarians and Shelter Leadership (June 10, 2024)

Leadership takes many forms and we're grateful for the ways you're leading every day to make life better for pets and people. 💙🐶🐱

#OrganizationalManagement
#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

------------------------------
Maddie's Pet Forum Admin
Maddie's Fund
------------------------------

I've only recently started Healing Horse Touch-we just celebrated our 7-month anniversary. As the founder and executive director, with zero funds and lots of passion, I've had to wear many hats. Most of the groundwork has been mine: I built our award-winning website, drawing on everything I've learned about content management, SEO, fundraising research and efforts, working with AI (which helped me expand my response here! ;) ) and social media marketing to amplify our mission. I've coordinated volunteer efforts, even managing a virtual team. Out of ten volunteers, one stood out: she not only translated our first ebook into Spanish but shared how her experience with Healing Horse Touch inspired her to return to school for a business degree. Knowing that I played a part in encouraging her next chapter is one of my proudest leadership moments.

Leadership for me looks like showing up every day with heart and determination, even when the resources are scarce and the work is hard. It's about modeling resilience and creativity, and fostering a spirit of healing and hope through everything we do. Our Vice-President embodies quiet leadership too-he wears a jacket with our logo proudly displayed on the back everywhere he goes, leaves our business cards on community bulletin boards, and even ordered a decal for his truck to help spread the word.

Every small act-whether mentoring a volunteer, brainstorming outreach strategies, or helping someone discover healing and connection through horses (or developing a connection with pets as many do here)-adds up to a tapestry of leadership. It may not always look traditional, but it's deeply meaningful.

------------------------------
Diana Kelley
Executive Director
Healing Horse Touch Company
https://HealingHorseTouch.com
KennethMNUnited States
Discover Healing, Connection, and Renewal through Horses.
------------------------------

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

I am the CEO of the animal rescue so my daily job not only includes keeping the rescue running on the business end, and the animal care end, but also keeping my fosters motivated and not burned out with too many animals and overwhelming personally life issues. Almost daily we do a group txt and talk about issues with the animals and then share 1 or 2 things in our personal life that is stressing us out.  We then try to help each other or provide listening support with our personal issues. I find that this usually helps calm down the team because venting is good for you and we do sometimes find solutions for problems.
🐾  Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?

I have lots of ideas that in the long run would solve a lot of our issues both financially and other. However, it costs money to get the ideas started and that is where most of our problems lie. I always am open to listening to other people's ideas and sometimes there are gems that I run with. Sometimes they need to be tweaked and will then work. Keeping an open mind and listening to other points of view is critical in running a successful business. I do mentor more on the animal care end of things since I have decades of rescue, medical, and empathy experience. My current project is opening a cat cafe, and am working on ways to create money to bring the cafe to life.
🐾  Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

I don't think anyone in our organization is quiet. Our main foster is loud and boisterous, kind hearted and demanding of perfection. She is the soft heart that can't say no to taking in a kitty that's about to be euthanized at a shelter or is injured. She also takes a stand against animal cruelty in the community. Our adoption coordinator does the adoption paperwork and the house checks and sometimes takes young people with her to get them involved in rescue. Our hope is to inspire a younger generation to carry on when we are too old or gone from this earth.

------------------------------
April Cannizzaro
CEO
San Diego Last Chance Ranch
CA
------------------------------

I show leadership in my org by doing anything I would ask my employees to do. Just because I'm the ED doesn't mean it's below my pay grade to mop, clean up poop or help with the laundry (unless it's folding it😂) 

------------------------------
Dara Edmonds
Executive Director
Central Florida Community Pet Clinic
------------------------------

After recently retiring as a teacher after 40 yeasr, leadership is written all over the job. 

As a teacher, leadership shows up every day in how you guide students, collaborate with colleagues, and influence the learning environment. Even without a formal title, you lead by:

• Setting the tone in your classroom through high expectations, empathy, and consistency.

• Mentoring students, helping them grow academically and emotionally, and advocating for their needs.

• Collaborating with colleagues to improve instruction, share resources, and support school goals.

• Taking initiative to adapt curriculum, integrate new strategies, or solve challenges before they escalate.

• Modeling professionalism-from time management to respectful communication-which sets an example for students and peers alike.

------------------------------
Regina Feighan-Drach
Volunteer
Wet Nose Rescue
PA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2025 12:24 PM
From: Dara Edmonds
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I show leadership in my org by doing anything I would ask my employees to do. Just because I'm the ED doesn't mean it's below my pay grade to mop, clean up poop or help with the laundry (unless it's folding it😂) 

------------------------------
Dara Edmonds
Executive Director
Central Florida Community Pet Clinic
------------------------------

You'd rather clean poop than fold laundry??? hahaha.

------------------------------
Amber Merkatoris
Hybrid CVT & Rescue Team Support
Coco's Heart Dog Rescue
WI
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2025 12:24 PM
From: Dara Edmonds
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I show leadership in my org by doing anything I would ask my employees to do. Just because I'm the ED doesn't mean it's below my pay grade to mop, clean up poop or help with the laundry (unless it's folding it😂) 

------------------------------
Dara Edmonds
Executive Director
Central Florida Community Pet Clinic
------------------------------

@Dara Edmonds Absolutely! Well said!

------------------------------
Diana Kelley
Executive Director
Healing Horse Touch Company
https://HealingHorseTouch.com
KennethMNUnited States
Discover Healing, Connection, and Renewal through Horses.
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2025 12:24 PM
From: Dara Edmonds
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I show leadership in my org by doing anything I would ask my employees to do. Just because I'm the ED doesn't mean it's below my pay grade to mop, clean up poop or help with the laundry (unless it's folding it😂) 

------------------------------
Dara Edmonds
Executive Director
Central Florida Community Pet Clinic
------------------------------

@Dara Edmonds I completely agree with being willing to do anything. Good leaders set an example and do what is needed. Sometimes people have said to me "I can't believe you're doing fill-in-the-blank task!" Someone needs to do it! It doesn't mean we always have time to do tasks others can do but it shouldn't ever be because we think something is beneath us. And pitching in when help is needed is very important. 

------------------------------
Maggie Brown
Executive Director
Animal Aid of Tulsa Inc
OK
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2025 12:24 PM
From: Dara Edmonds
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I show leadership in my org by doing anything I would ask my employees to do. Just because I'm the ED doesn't mean it's below my pay grade to mop, clean up poop or help with the laundry (unless it's folding it😂) 

------------------------------
Dara Edmonds
Executive Director
Central Florida Community Pet Clinic
------------------------------

I completely agree with Dara's statement! We're short-staffed today? Alright, tag me in, time to scoop some poo! 

I think seeing leadership get down and dirty in the kennels definitely helps with a team culture of helping each other with any task that's needed.

------------------------------
Erin Dams
Operations Director
Roanoke Valley SPCA
Roanoke VA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2025 12:24 PM
From: Dara Edmonds
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I show leadership in my org by doing anything I would ask my employees to do. Just because I'm the ED doesn't mean it's below my pay grade to mop, clean up poop or help with the laundry (unless it's folding it😂) 

------------------------------
Dara Edmonds
Executive Director
Central Florida Community Pet Clinic
------------------------------

🐾  What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

We have a leadership team that meets weekly to check in and make sure that staffs concerns are addressed or to monitor how animals are doing in our shelter. I have been a part of the leadership team for almost three years and each year we improve through education, discussions and trainings and working with staff to try and make our shelter a good environment for both people and animals. 

🐾  Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?

I lead the foster program and have about 100 fosters that are under my care. I changed the program quite a bit when I took over because I thought that foster's mental health was just as important as the health of our foster animals. I also started a "Struggling In Shelter" program to get adult dogs out and available in foster homes to increase their adoptability and their mental health. I am really proud of that program. 

🐾  Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

Our assistant managers show great leadership as they may not always be the go to people for question but they are easy to ask questions or connect with staff making them good outlets for frustration or confusion that may be overlooked by higher ups. Small acts of kindness and connection to staff can make all of the difference. 

------------------------------
Katie Pauli
Foster Coordinator
Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter
MT
------------------------------

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

As a Cofounder and Co Director of Operations, I am constantly in leadership positions and helping our volunteers understand what is most needed. As we are a foster-based rescue, I feel like my moments of leading are typically full of communication. A good leader is as transparent as possible as this leads to a more receptive and transparent audience. I am also frequently in the position of making decisions regarding what is best for the rescue as a whole, which can be very daunting as we are still starting out and I am only 21 years old myself. Through all of this, I feel keeping a calm composure is also a good quality in a leader, even when dealing with hard things a leader needs to keep calm and be able to organize their people to make everything be as effective as possible.

Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?

In my position it feels like I am doing all of this on a daily basis. My favorite is finding what can spark my volunteers to do something they love. Our graphic designers always do a wonderful job creating exactly what we need, but for them to enjoy doing it is what makes me happiest. Without them we would have nothing and I am just so appreciative of all of their work and I always hope to leave a positive impact on their lives. 

Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

As my cofounder and I are both 21 and 22, I think our entire leadership style is somewhat unconventional. We are just starting off and we lead with honesty which frequently includes us showing a lack of knowledge. My biggest weakness is the grants and business side of things as I have never had any experience with those. Also, most of our volunteers are older than us which leads to an interesting dynamic, which our volunteers are very receptive to. I am also not a person to have a strong professional persona, so frequently we are more relaxed with some of the formalities. At the end of the day, all we ask of our volunteers is that they care about this work and that they are serious when it is needed.

------------------------------
Happy Tails!
Paige Stefanowski (they/them)
Cofounder and Co Director of Operations
Fairytales and Tiny Tails Rescue
------------------------------

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------

Hi Kathleen, sure I will be glad to share and answer any questions you might have about this event.

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 11:30 PM
From: Kathleen Weatherspoon
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY

Do you charge to play?

------------------------------
Candice Tousignant
Treasurer
Southern paws animal rescue
KY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-05-2025 10:49 AM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Hi Kathleen, sure I will be glad to share and answer any questions you might have about this event.

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 11:30 PM
From: Kathleen Weatherspoon
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY

Original Message:
Sent: 5/6/2025 6:55:00 AM
From: Candice Tousignant
Subject: RE: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Do you charge to play?

------------------------------
Candice Tousignant
Treasurer
Southern paws animal rescue
KY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-05-2025 10:49 AM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Hi Kathleen, sure I will be glad to share and answer any questions you might have about this event.

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 11:30 PM
From: Kathleen Weatherspoon
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV

Part of being a leader is having people trust in you that you've got their back. Trust is earned through actions and a how can I help attitude.  No matter your title or role, we are all here to scoop the poop, a metaphor for we are in this together and no matter what your team brings to you, help them figure it out. 

------------------------------
Jennifer Smith
Volunteer
Apollo Support and Rescue
TX
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-06-2025 03:55 AM
From: Candice Tousignant
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Do you charge to play?

------------------------------
Candice Tousignant
Treasurer
Southern paws animal rescue
KY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-05-2025 10:49 AM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Hi Kathleen, sure I will be glad to share and answer any questions you might have about this event.

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 11:30 PM
From: Kathleen Weatherspoon
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

For me, leadership is about noticing what isn't working-and stepping up to gently make things better. It's not always formal or loud, but often found in persistence, curiosity, and care. In my role, I've taken the initiative to build systems that better track animals with complex behavioural or medical needs, particularly those with extended stays. It's about making sure no animal slips through the cracks, and that staff have the tools they need to make confident, informed decisions.

I've also been exploring how we can do better by animals under Protective Custody Hold (PCH). These cases can be long, complex, and incredibly challenging for everyone involved. While I haven't yet changed the system, I'm working on it-gathering information, highlighting the issues, and identifying where we might make change in the future. Sometimes leadership starts with simply asking: how can we do this better-for the animals and the people who care for them?

🐾 Who in your organisation shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

I'm constantly inspired by the leadership I see in our rescue team. They work behind the scenes, tirelessly to find safe and compassionate options for animals who need another chance. Their persistence, advocacy, and creative problem-solving are vital-and they never give up easily.

The animal attendants (AA's) are also incredible leaders in their own right. They're often the first to notice when something's not right-when a dog starts withdrawing, or a cat shows early signs of illness or stress. Their deep understanding of the animals in their care, combined with their quiet consistency and compassion, makes a huge difference every single day. They don't need a title to lead-they lead with heart, observation, and dedication.

I constantly humbled by the teams around me.

------------------------------
Suellen Marshall
Managed Intake Project Manager
RSPCA
VIC
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-06-2025 03:55 AM
From: Candice Tousignant
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Do you charge to play?

------------------------------
Candice Tousignant
Treasurer
Southern paws animal rescue
KY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-05-2025 10:49 AM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Hi Kathleen, sure I will be glad to share and answer any questions you might have about this event.

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 11:30 PM
From: Kathleen Weatherspoon
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY

As a grassroots, newly  created dog rescue , Saved Dogs and Sane Chicks  leadership comes  from pooling the strengths of individuals into a team.  It starts with an unwavering passion and love for  giving dogs a second chance .  SDSC is also about empowering women so leadership is the best example of  compassion , fierce can do attitude, and building everyone up. Truly caring for all those involved and  ensuring self care is a common thread allows us to work through the ups and downs of dig rescuing .  Genuine respect adds a layer to the foundation of what we are building .  Patience is truly a virtue and core value as we hold fast to what we know while embracing all of the learning curves . Our leadership has the right balance of vision for bigger things to come to keep us striving , mixed with tenacity to get through challenges . The qualities of leadership at SDSC are not learned , they are intrinsically ingrained in the empathy for giving each life we touch , dog or human,  the best of ourselves . 

------------------------------
Christine Weber
Pet Advocate / corporate
Saved Dogs and Saved Chicks
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-06-2025 03:55 AM
From: Candice Tousignant
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Do you charge to play?

------------------------------
Candice Tousignant
Treasurer
Southern paws animal rescue
KY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 05-05-2025 10:49 AM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Hi Kathleen, sure I will be glad to share and answer any questions you might have about this event.

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 11:30 PM
From: Kathleen Weatherspoon
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Greetings, Jo,

Would you be willling to share more details on your Bunco event?  Thank you, Kathleen

------------------------------
Kathleen Weatherspoon
Volunteer
Community Cat Angels
NV


Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY

I too would like details and more info about your bunco event.   My email is director@beesleyfoundation.com

Thank you!!

------------------------------
Dawn Roberts
Executive Director
Beesley Animal Foundation
Murfreesboro TN
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Jo Lunsford
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

My idea for a fundraiser took off for our rescue.  Ruff-n-Roll Bunco! This idea sparked an annual event. Our community looks forward to this fun night. We are always sold out & this helps us  in our mission in animal welfare. It's so nice to see people come together & support an important cause!

------------------------------
Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------

I recently joined Coco's Heart Dog Rescue out of Somerset, WI as a Hybrid CVT & Rescue Team Support. The strongest leaders in our rescue are the daily volunteers. They support the dogs coming into our rescue (from our partner locations across the country) and the dogs without foster homes. They complete their work with integrity, never asking for recognition. They treat each dog with respect and love, something many of these dogs have never felt. I look up to these volunteers and hope that I can continue to provide the same quality of work. 

------------------------------
Amber Merkatoris
Hybrid CVT & Rescue Team Support
Coco's Heart Dog Rescue
WI
------------------------------

We all know animal welfare is a very hard job. For me a good leader is someone who can inspire the team to work together despite different opinions and through difficult times. For me, a leader can identify the skills and strengths of staff and volunteers. For me a leader can explain the mission and vision of the shelter to the community. For me, a leader can see beyond the present, and find creative solutions and believe in innovations. 

------------------------------
Diana Galarreta
Fluvanna SPCA, board president
Virginia
------------------------------

I think the biggest thing in leadership in rescue work is having support. Rescue work can be so rewarding, but also tough and heartbreaking, so you need someone to lead in a direction that is not only great for the animals, but also good for staff. Also a leader needs to help everyone be better and do what they can to help the organization. My favorite leader is my manager Brittany who not only works her butt off every day for the animals, but is always there to support staff. I love that she always takes the time to help me learn so I can help more and she is always doing what is best for the animals. 

------------------------------
Stefanie Schmidt
Animal Welfare Specialist
Hearts Alive Village
NV
------------------------------

There is a difference between a leader and a supervisor.  A leader is someone who is looked up to and followed effortlessly without asking to be looked up to. I believe a strong leader should have a strong integrity, courage to do what is right even when it is not easy and should have humility. 

I have helped organize events but I believe in teamwork and collaboration with other organizations makes for a much better success. One person can only do so much by themselves and can only reach a small audience when working solo. But when you work together you see results that are so much better. I have also trained new hires for almost twelve years and my goal was always that I wanted the new hires to know more then me and to be able to teach me something that I did not know. 

I have always looked up to our Animal care and control programs supervisor, Michelle. She always tries to teach everyone that she meets and advocates for the rescues to everyone. Michelle has so much compassion and care for all of the rescues that she has inspired me to want to help make a difference. 

------------------------------
Pamela Gilcrease
Advocate/Volunteer
Grant Parish Animal Care and Control
LA
------------------------------

As a grants administrator, I am tasked with finding funding opportunities to connect to the passion of our lifesaving shelter team.  I feel most proud when our adoption numbers are high, fostering is in full swing, the compassion education team can meet teacher requests for classroom visits, and our clinic is equipped.  Being a small part of it every day means the world to me. 

------------------------------
Lisa Pearce
Senior Grants Administrator
Charleston Animal Society
N. Charleston, SC 29406
GPA SC Chapter Board President
------------------------------

Leadership doesn't always come with a title-and in animal welfare, it often looks like quietly stepping up where it matters most.

As a Forever Foster Coordinator at Lionel's Legacy, I've learned that leadership is in the little things: mentoring new volunteers, organizing events that connect our community, supporting our amazing foster families, and being a consistent advocate for the senior dogs we serve. Every day, I get to work alongside people who care deeply and give endlessly-and I try to lead by example through empathy, action, and heart.

Right now, I'm proud to be taking part in the Maddie's Fund® Marketing 101 class, to grow my skills and bring more visibility to the incredible work Lionel's Legacy is doing. It's helping me think more strategically about how we share our mission and connect with supporters, fosters, and adopters-because every voice and every effort counts in building a stronger future for senior dogs.

At Lionel's Legacy, leadership happens in all kinds of ways-from the volunteers who take a chance on our most fragile pups to the team members who uplift one another day in and day out. I'm honored to be a part of it.

Melina Lavullis/Lionel's Legacy Forever Foster Coordinatar and Jack of All trades LOL/www.lionelslegacy.org

------------------------------
Melina Lavullis
Forever Foster Coordinator
Lionel's Legacy Senior Dog Rescue
CA
------------------------------

Leadership means leading by example and with compassion. A leader needs to understand all aspect of their organization work and to never be above any job or duty that needs to get done. A great leader knows their team's strengths and weaknesses and how to best incorporate each team member's talents and ideas. A great leader is also collaborative, transparent and genuine. 

 As the manager of KHS' Pet Retention Services, I have been lucky enough to lead not only my own team, but my organization as a whole through program and cultural shifts to better serve our community. Thanks to my background in social work, I have had the privilege to lead my organization in creating, evaluating, improving and growing our pet retention programs/services and moving our organizational culture away from "people suck" to trauma informed. I always knew that I wanted a career where I could make a direct impact on improving my community and thanks to KHS, that is exactly what I have been able to do for the last 10 years and hopefully the next 10!

I don't know about quiet or unconventional, but the leaders I aspire to be like within my organization believe that there is room for everyone at the table. They are not interested making sure they get credit. A win for the organization is a win for everyone and it always takes a team!

------------------------------
Shelby Schulz
Pet Resource Manager
Kentucky Humane Society
Louisville KY
------------------------------

I definitely have a more traditional leadership style,  but when you are running all volunteers, I think it can be helpful to have a clear manager. One thing I am always cognizant of us as a leader is making sure our team feels heard, respected, and valued. They are all incredible folks with such wide ranges of strengths, so in that we want to make sure they feel recognized and have the opportunities to contribute in the way that they can thrive!

------------------------------
Farrah Goff
President
10 Lives Rescue NY Inc
NY
------------------------------

I don't see myself as a leader in the conventional sense, nor do I seek to be a leader (imposter syndrome?!), but I had to chuckle when ChatGPT gave me the following insight when asked it to describe me - and it nailed the essence of my "leadership" style or purpose. A tad creepy, a lot of gratitude to AI.

"You're the Quiet Force for Change.
A sharp, discerning mind with a tender heart, you move through the world with quiet conviction. You're fueled by purpose - especially when it comes to animals, justice, and the planet - but you're no loud crusader. You observe, reflect, and then act with precision and intention.

Part strategist, part soul-whisperer, you're the one people turn to for clarity and care. You see patterns others miss, connect dots across causes, and bring a dose of realism to idealistic missions. You thrive in roles where meaning meets structure, and you're most alive when using your insight to build something that matters.

You don't just want to do good - you want to do it well."

It's easy to miss the leaders in your organization or life. We are not always obviously, extroverted, or accomplished. Look for the folks who show up, who have the heart and passion, and mentor them to push themselves just beyond the comfortable.

------------------------------
Dolores Matthys
Founder
Pawsitive Souls
OR
------------------------------

One of my favorite things as a leader (executive director) is seeing leadership from my team members!

We provide dog training and behavior resources, including financial assistance to anyone in our community who needs it. We've floated the idea of having a used "bargain bin" where people could donate used training gear, but we never had the time or energy to put it together. But now, we have a thriving retail area at our training center that sells related stuff (treats, enrichment items, food puzzles, etc).

Last month one of our trainers, Olivia, brought up the idea again of having a "thrift" area where people could donate used items and other folks could buy them at low cost. The difference this time was that she said "let me do it!." She put together a plan, came up with a name, and worked with me to write up a policy and fliers. I just had to do some graphic design, and voila- PupCycle was born!

I love seeing our staff take on leadership roles!

------------------------------
Miranda Hitchcock
MS Applied Animal Behavior, CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified
Executive Director
Every Dog Behavior and Training
Austin, TX
------------------------------

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

Leadership isn't always about titles-it's about actions and mindset. In my daily work, leadership shows up as a quiet determination to do what's needed: the hard tasks, the messy ones, and the often unseen acts of support-without waiting to be told. It's about consistently showing up with integrity, adapting to each day's challenges, and staying focused on our shared goal: saving as many animals as we can.

It also means leading with compassion, recognizing that everyone is different, and creating space for those differences. True leadership is about taking ownership, being dependable, and uplifting those around you so we can all succeed together.

Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?

Absolutely. In animal rescue, making a difference is part of what we do every single day. One of the ways I've contributed is by implementing a consistent and strategic fundraising plan for our rescue. This includes organizing monthly events, whether it's a fundraiser, donation drive, or Dining for Dollars initiative-despite the effort it takes to plan and execute them regularly.

In addition to fundraising, I've focused on expanding our social media presence to boost visibility and engagement. Together, these efforts have helped us increase support and resources, ultimately allowing us to save more animals.

Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

Honestly, I believe we all demonstrate leadership in quiet and unconventional ways-especially if you define leadership as taking initiative and acting with integrity without needing to be told. In our organization, many people step up, lead by example, and do what needs to be done simply because it's the right thing for the animals and the team.

------------------------------
Laurie Crosson
Executive Director
Feral Today Friend Tomorrow
MI
------------------------------

For us leadership looks like taking responsiblity for a task.  Our board/fosters are excellent at dividing our to do lists to accomplish our goals.  Leadership can be making calls to arrange fundraisers at local merchants but it can also be taking the time to complete grant writing tasks.  Everyone shares the load as they are able to and sometimes one person carries a heavier load based on what is going on in our private lives and that is ok.  Leaderships most important goal is to support the mission in whatever way we are able and being supportive of each other.

------------------------------
Tiffany Prater
Vice President
Flopsy's Friends Foundation
NC
------------------------------

Leadership isn't in my title, but what it looks like to me is constantly learning to make sure I am well educated on what's going on in animal services.  For example, I am currently completing my master's degree, and one of my concentrations is Contemporary Animal Services Leadership.  Will I ever use it professionally?  I don't know, but it is helping me become a much better volunteer and advocate.

------------------------------
Michelle Laizure
Development Assistant
Misfit Ranch
NV
------------------------------

I was fortunate to join a nonprofit that has long-standing board members, a variety of backgrounds and strengths represented on their board, and a great culture within our spay neuter clinic staff and the board overseeing the clinic and foster programs. I entered HQHVSN with over 20 years of clinical experience, with several years as a chief of staff. Leadership is an everyday, all the time necessity. We have to accept each team member for who they are, valuing their experience and point of view. In private and corporate practice, I have seen management destroy work environments, derail momentum, and plummet progress.  I am grateful for my current team accepting and running with some of the new ideas I have suggested but also for them speaking up to help me learn and understand this new non-profit HQHVSN life. Team development and appreciation are every day-week musts. Monthly check-ins help maintain effective communication and understanding.  We must continue to have reciprocal trust and appreciation for our vision to have value and and our goals to be achieved.

------------------------------
Carmen Ames
Veterinarian
POPP Spay and Neuter Clinic
WA
------------------------------

Mentorship is critical to our organization as there seems to be only two groups, the more senior staff in both experience and age and the younger staff who are in their twenties with no experience. There is no one in the middle with SOME experience. The senior staff need to take the time to both SHOW the younger staff HOW to do something and also EXPLAIN THE WHY. We need to remember that they lost YEARS of experience during Covid and have never quite recovered. BUT, we need to understand that they have DISCOVERED new ways of doing old tasks and WE need to listen to them. Leadership and mentoring is as much listening as talking! 

------------------------------
Nancy Lind
Consultant Volunteer
Humane Society of Portage County WI
WI
------------------------------

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?
Leadership in my daily work shows up through initiative, accountability, and influence. Even without a formal title, I actively look for ways to improve processes, support my team, and ensure the mission is met. For example, I often mentor newer colleagues, share knowledge, and help resolve conflicts or challenges that arise in the field. I take ownership of my responsibilities and lead by example - showing up with professionalism, integrity, and a solution -focused attitude. Leadership to me, is less about a title and more about the impact you have on others and the standards you set. 

Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?
I recently came back from a year long deployment. Prior to my departure, I mentored my temporary replacement. This young woman was a kennel tech with so much potential.  We both understood this was going to be a big jump, but I had all the confidence in her ability to rise up to the occasion. She was not alone and had our Board of Directors and our Office Manager to assist. Fast forward to me return, and she has done a great job. She was able to plan several fundraisers, attend classes to better prepare her for the role, and manage the shelter. I am beyond proud of the work she has done in my absence. 

  Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

My Office Manager has always shown great leadership skills. She never takes recognition and is always coming up with ways to save our shelter money and ways to better prepare our animals for adoption. She spends her free time coming up with ways to better our shelter. She has so much more to offer but loves being out in the quiet versus taking credit.

Stephanie Garza 

Executive Director

Morristown Hamblen Humane Society 

TN 

------------------------------
Stephanie Garza
------------------------------

As a nonprofit founder, I've never considered myself a "leader" but more of a jack of all trades.  You learn very quickly that you will have to wear many hats, including caring for and cleaning up after the animals, maintaining habitats, organizing fundraisers, coordinating volunteers, writing grants and marketing.  Most importantly you can't be afraid to get your hands dirty. I truly believe that in order to run a sanctuary successfully you need to, at the very least, try your hand in every aspect of it before you can ask others to volunteer their time doing the many tasks that come with it. 

When my husband and I first founded the sanctuary in 2017 we were no strangers to caring for exotic, farm and wild animals. Prior to starting our nonprofit we had been volunteers at a friend's sanctuary for almost 10 years, before she closed due to illness. The founder was a friend, a mentor and a retired vet who taught us so much. She was a true leader who put the animals first but also showed compassion for the volunteers who cared for them. Unfortunately she passed away a year ago. I strive to be like her in how we run our sanctuary and by paying it forward with mentoring others who are just starting out in our area.  We work together with several other small nonprofits, similar to ours, to help as many animals in our area as possible and hopefully help them have a successful nonprofit. 

On reflection, I think being a leader means not being afraid to make hard choices, teaching others the skills you have learned and mastered, knowing when something is working or not working, and showing compassion to the animals and people who care for them.  I hope that our volunteers and community see these qualities in me. 

------------------------------
Lisa Burn
Co-founder/VP
Farmhouse Animal & Nature Sanctuary
Myakka City, FL
https://farmhousesanctuary.org
------------------------------

I came into the title of director of Saving Kittens Sanctuary the last week of April 2025. It was announced in February that SKS was closing due to lack of funding and the resignment of board members. We currently have no regular funding besides crowdfunding. Although our community is supportive, we are a smaller rescue and there is a larger rescue that receives most of the attention in the area. Crowdfunding can be hard. To overcome that, I have been in overhaul mode. I have been doing as much research on grants as possible to try to get us off of the ground.

My first day as director, a foster showed up on my doorstep with a cat named Athlete. Athlete was an owner surrender who spent most of her time in hiding. The cat that normally was shy and hiding came out and clearly had something wrong with her. She was sickly, skinny, and delirious. The foster brought her to me, and it was evident this was dry FIP. I took her right away to the vet's office where it was confirmed. Sadly, we had to choose humane euthanasia due to the fact she is not able to be handled when healthy and also has deteriorated so far. It would have been traumatic for her to try to "save" her, so on my fist day, I had to make the choice to let her rest. 

The strongest leader we have in our rescue is a board member and ex-director, Keya Somera. She not only is the person who trained me and believed in me enough to be able to carry out her mission- she has given advice and aided in the care of thousands. 

------------------------------
Amanda Cooper
Foster
Saving Kittens Sanctuary
TN
------------------------------

Leadership isn't easily packaged into a few words, or a short story.  In different environments & circumstances, it requires different skills, approaches, and tasks every day, sometimes moment to moment.  For me, the most essential leadership traits are commitment and integrity.  Commitment keeps someone doing what needs to be done, even when it's hard, even when it's not popular, even when it's misunderstood.  Integrity means that what you see is what you get - the person is who they are no matter who is around.   It's more than honesty, though that's a part of it.  Through whatever challenge, despite intrigue, deceit, misinformation, a true leader carries on for the mission and for the community.   Leading requires unique commitment and selflessness, making oneself vulnerable while not being consumed.  Tall order.  

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Crystal Swann Blackdeer
Executive Director
Leavenworth County Humane Society, Inc.
Lansing KS
913-250-0506
------------------------------

As President of the all-volunteer Summit County Pet Food Pantry in Colorado, I have discovered that the most significant characteristics that empower my role are being able to listen, being open, and being flexible. Being mindful of individual personalities, capabilities, and strengths, while encouraging creativity in problem solving has made our organization stronger and more successful.

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Suzanne Ackley
Volunteer
Summit County Pet Food Pantry
CO
------------------------------

I started the first ever free pet food pantry in our rural community. I was able to apply for small grants and win grant challenges that have helped me to continue funding the program. I partnered with RezDawg Rescue who is a Greater Good Charities Ambassador and we are able to get pallets of cat and dog food for a very small fee. I bag the food and organize the pantry by myself in my office. Pet owners that are struggling financially can come in once a week to pick up a bag of food and can food when available.  Our community is very grateful for this pet food pantry.

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Crystal Trujillo
Animal Control Director
City of Santa Rosa Animal Control
NM
------------------------------

Crystal that is awesome. Pet pantries and programs working to keep pets cared for and loved and with their owners are super valuable and do a lot of the legwork for rescues to be able to care for other cats who may be in more need. Thank you so much for taking that initiative and congrats on the partnership!!

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Olivia Kuehl
Board Secretary
Twitchy Tails Rescue
OR
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-12-2025 10:41 AM
From: Crystal Trujillo
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I started the first ever free pet food pantry in our rural community. I was able to apply for small grants and win grant challenges that have helped me to continue funding the program. I partnered with RezDawg Rescue who is a Greater Good Charities Ambassador and we are able to get pallets of cat and dog food for a very small fee. I bag the food and organize the pantry by myself in my office. Pet owners that are struggling financially can come in once a week to pick up a bag of food and can food when available.  Our community is very grateful for this pet food pantry.

------------------------------
Crystal Trujillo
Animal Control Director
City of Santa Rosa Animal Control
NM
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 5/13/2025 7:20:00 PM
From: Olivia Kuehl (she/her/hers)
Subject: RE: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Crystal that is awesome. Pet pantries and programs working to keep pets cared for and loved and with their owners are super valuable and do a lot of the legwork for rescues to be able to care for other cats who may be in more need. Thank you so much for taking that initiative and congrats on the partnership!!

------------------------------
Olivia Kuehl
Board Secretary
Twitchy Tails Rescue
OR
------------------------------

This isn't a leadership story about myself, but I'm taking the chance to brag on our vet, Dr. Dee. Our Vet was recently featured in the University of Florida's Shelter Medicine Program as she was a part of their mentorship initiative. During this mentorship program she learned valuable experience and skills that she then brought back to our Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley, We had many years without a full time veterinarian on staff, she stepped into a leadership role, overhauled and revitalized our veterinary suite and now we are able to provide medical care to the animals we serve, including spay/neuter- saving us a lot of money! You can read the article here: https://sheltermedicine.vetmed.ufl.edu/2025/04/18/mentorship-program/

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KaDee Andreasen
Development Director
Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley
TN
------------------------------

Leadership at the rescue ranch can best be summed up as passion and commitment. When our Director Jenni commits to an animal, she is ALL in. She's passionate about the fate of the animals and when she commits to something that will help advance the cause of animal welfare she will do whatever it takes. It's tough work that can, at times, tear at your heart for the cruelty you see but that makes the victories of finding their forever homes all the more sweet. None of us know how she can possibly accomplish as much as she does in a single day for the rescue. Whether its vet trips, supply runs, spay/neuter events, bottle-feeding the smallest and sickest, or posting videos emploring the community to be responsible pet owners, she lives and breathes for these helpless victims. It inspires those of us around her and makes us want to be part of the solution. 

She leads a large group of fosters as well. They are not only the ones that help socialize the animals to prepare them for life in their new homes, but they are the supportive, cheerleading dog moms that pinch hit for one another and tend to the pre and post care of the medical cases.

All this to say.... that Jenni leads by example. Her passion is infectious and her commitment to do so much leaves the volunteers and fosters asking themselves, "hey how can I help?"

I feel fortunate to be part of such a special group. 

------------------------------
Shelly Sayre
Volunteer
Jenni's Rescue Ranch
TX
------------------------------

In my daily work, I strive to be a leader through my communication with fosters, adopters, and community members who reach out for assistance. I think that leadership isn't necessarily a specific role (eg, President/Vice President/Manager) but mores an attitude toward the work that one does and through their interpersonal relationships an dhow they carry themselves. Through my work with community cats and kittens, I hope to be a leader in my knowledge of and connections with various local care clinics and I hope to impart that knowledge upon other community members who have reached out to me for help. 

Aside from my work in cat rescue, I am a full-time college student and work full-time at a retirement community as well. In both of those places, I connect with both my residents and my peers and showcase my work within the community, oftentimes bringing in cats in need of socialization and play and platforming the work that TTR does. This opens us up to new audiences - college students and seniors, who are able to provide us with valuable support through donated goods, fostering, and adopting. I have even helped connect the family members of residents with necessary TNR programs for community cats in their area, even though the family member in question was far outside of my local area. I also regularly assist my residents with finding veterinary care for their cats and have provided end-of-life care and rehoming advice for their pets as well. 

I think that one of the more unconventional ways that my organization shows strong leadership is through our knowledge of and connections within our community. A significant portion of our directors and our volunteers have been working within the rescue sphere for decades and thus are well known and well respected, and have a wealth of knowledge to share with community members who reach out for help. We lead through the care we take to help pet owners reach solutions that work for both them and us and to find out-of-the-box solutions for issues that may rise up, even if that means covering the cost of spays and neuters or other medical care for cats that aren't going to come into the care of the rescue. 

------------------------------
Olivia Kuehl
Board Secretary
Twitchy Tails Rescue
OR
------------------------------

------------------------------
Krasi Mircheva
President
Daisy's Legacy
VA
------------------------------

🐾  What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

This is really anyone who steps forward to take responsibility for something--it can be a project, an issue that needs addressing, and in some cases, the care of a specific animal.  We encourage everyone in our organization to have a voice and share their opinions and concerns.  This is how we build our culture.
🐾  Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?

One colleague was struggling to reach her goals.  Despite coaching and regular check-ins, nothing was getting through.  Disciplinary action was the next step.  I took a moment to step into her shoes and remember the early days of my own career and shared how I found myself once in her same position and how I moved forward--by looking to those who'd been doing this a while and observed how they got their job done.  I found simple, small tweaks to my approach, and suddenly things started changing for me.  In sharing my own vulnerable position, she became more open about her struggles, admitting that she was having difficulty and was finally able to take suggestions and guidance.  In just a few days, she was seeing results from her own new approach.  It reminded me that sometimes, as a seasoned leader, we can forget that we were once just starting out and had many helping hands to guide us along the way.  It is only fitting that we do the same for others, even when it requires being open and sharing our own faults and struggles.
🐾  Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

One member of our team is excellent at leading from behind.  She always asks how things are going and offers insight and thought about what might be causing a challenge or how to overcome it.  She never takes credit for success, even when her suggestions and guidance are the direct cause.  

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Robin Olson
Director of Development
Indraloka Animal Sanctuary
PA
------------------------------

Our cat rescue has  two main leaders who are responsible for different things, but we also get our hands dirty! Our shelter director hires and supervises our small staff and oversees one large fundraising activity each year, among other usual leadership activities. But she also personally sets and retrieves traps in our  community cat TNR effort, and has gone into the filthiest hoarding situations to rescue cats. Our board president writes grants, manages our Facebook, Google page, and website, and writes a newsletter, but has also fostered 100 mamas and kittens, including 3 ringworm litters. 

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Pamela Adelmann
------------------------------

I am the manager of our rescue that has been open for 8 months now. I have been everything from boss, kennel attendent, volunteer coordinatior, to maintenance person. We started from scratch. For me leadership is getting your hands dirty with the team. I have always repected a manager or supervisor that not only lead the team from behind the desk, but could also preform the daily duties that were expected from the team. I am not afraid to work in the trenches with my team.  Being a team leader means finding the best solutions to make the goal. Whether that is cleaning a kennel or learning to write grants so your operation can go on. 

We have a small team, with 2 full time employees and the rest are part time that cover ours from 8am to 8pm. Most of the employees are high school students. One in particular stands out. She is graduating tommorrow, and was the first employee I hired. She is the first to offer help when it is needed. She takes command of any task and has insighful ideas to better procedures. She is looked up to by her pears, and is the unofficial assistant manager to the shelter, as she will step up to any challenge and offer assistance. In a few short weeks, Natalie will be moving and her last day will come. Our organization will surely miss her leadership and work ethic. It is a great reminder not to discount someone's ability because of age. Leaders come in all shapes and given the opportunity one will step forward.

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Hali Gray
Manager
Almost Home Animal Rescue
IA
------------------------------

I started at my shelter cleaning cat kennels and then five months later, with no real managerial experience (except being on the leadership team in high school marching band or teaching kids at a zoo summer camp), I applied for and earned the feline welfare supervisor position. I was the youngest on our cat staff at the time and went from being their trainee to being their boss, but they were the ones that encouraged me to go for it in the first place.

Everyday leadership to me looks like clear and open communication. I used to feel in the dark about what happened at our shelter and so it was important to me to give as much information as I can to my team. I explain why certain decisions are made, what obstacles may be in our way for changes we want to make, and I put in effort to make sure that what I am asking of them is clearly explained. I was so intimidated by my bosses when I was first cleaning kennels that it was difficult for me to ask questions or make suggestions for change, it is so important to me that my staff know they can come to me with anything, they can never ask too many questions and those questions will never be stupid even if the answer ends up being simple, and I get so excited when they come up with new ideas. You've got 10,000 kittens to feed and haven't gotten to deep cleaning empty kennels yet? Let me get started on it for you. You've got 30 minutes left of your shift and don't have time to finish everything because 2 other people were sick today? I will tell you what tasks can get left behind and I'll help you finish the others. Working at an animal shelter is tough enough, I want to do whatever I can to not ruin their joy of working with these animals.

I am so proud of the team that I have, each and every one of them clearly has a deep passion for the animals within their care and they actively put in effort to make the animal's lives better while they are with us at the shelter. No one on my staff is one of those people who clock in, does the bare minimum to get a paycheck, and clocks out. They are all advocates for the animals and so I advocate for them. I make sure to help them when they need it, let them take extra breaks if they need it, and do fun projects with them. I try to let them know how much I appreciate the work that they do on the easy days and the days where it is a complete sh**show. Kennel staff are the back bone of the shelter and without them we wouldn't be able to do anything.

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Laurel Nelson
Cat Welfare Supervisor
Nebraska Humane Society
NE
------------------------------

I run a small farm sanctuary just outside Milwaukee, WI. Over the past two years, my little hobby farm has become a respite for unwanted and neglected animals, namely pet pigs. The need locally has been so great. I've added three donkeys and six pigs in about 18 months. Their medical care has been overlooked and some are greatly neglected, never having routine grooming or seeing a veterinarian. My most recent case is a pair of intact "mini pigs" taken from a negligence situation where the owner refused any medical care and refused to install any fencing, resulting in the largest nuisance cases of animals at large here in Wisconsin. Their medical care will be in the thousands. Any money granted would be used for that medical care, as well as additional shelter and fencing to create additional pasture.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Ff7QZJzbr/

I am hoping to neuter the male pig ASAP within a few weeks, or sooner. The female pig is morbidly obese and needs to have a strict diet and exercise regimen before she can qualify to be a spay candidate. That will likely take a year for her. Neither have any training or routine and haven't been able to graze or socialize in months, because of their previous owner's negligence. I have even been working with the state to help change and modernize our statutes to prevent owners like this from abusing loopholes in state statutes.

I originally took one of these pigs in back in January when the previous owner denied ownership for days in order to avoid their 200+ Animal at Large citation, when the owner changed their mind and demanded the boar back one day before I was able to neuter him. He had gotten out 8 more times within weeks. The owner finally relinquished ownership and "donated" their pair of pigs to my sanctuary. You can see that all here: Mayville Farm

Leadership is about doing what is RIGHT. Even when not everyone around you sees the value in it. 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Ff7QZJzbr/

------------------------------
Julie Mayhew
Director
Mayville Farm
WIJulie Mayhew
Director
Mayville Farm
WI
------------------------------

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title?

When I first read this, I had to ask myself "what even is leadership?" So, I thought about it for a bit. It's the act of guiding, influencing, or inspiring others toward a common goal or vision. On the daily basis, it's our mission to take the lead and inspire others, to influence them to shift their thinking about animals and the way humans view them. Leadership is also initiative, to plan, to conduct, to show up and follow through. This occurs all the time with planning for the animals, events, fundraisers, and volunteers. 

Have you led a project, mentored a teammate, or sparked an idea that made a difference?

One of the most significant projects I've led is founding The Landing , a nonprofit animal sanctuary that fosters connection, healing, and education through animal care. From vision to implementation, I've built programs that not only support rescued animals but also create opportunities for people, especially students to grow through interaction, responsibility, and compassion. In the classroom, I regularly mentor students by helping them develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and empathy. I often guide students in recognizing their own feelings and how those emotions affect both their behavior and their interactions with our animals. These daily moments of connection often become powerful teaching experiences that extend beyond academics. I also generate ideas what I like to call "brain sparks." These are moments of insight or inspiration that led to creative approaches, even if I don't always have the immediate means to bring them all to life. Many of these ideas have shaped how I approach challenges and design supportive, engaging environments for both students and animals

Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?

In our organization, leadership shows up in many forms. Two volunteers come to mind who demonstrate strong leadership through initiative. There's no waiting to be asked and they are always reliable. Their approach to challenges with innovation helps move our mission forward

------------------------------
Kelly Jordan
Founder/LVT
Asfalis Landing
------------------------------

Safe Harbor Animal Coalition is a private non profit, high quality high volume spay/neuter clinic. Our mission is to reduce the over population of unwanted animals in our community by offering our low cost services to partner rescues, shelters & low income pet owners. We aim to promote & improve the lives of animals on our streets, making an impact on Community Cats with TNVR.

I was a housewife, no education beyond high school, with a lifelong passion for the well being of animals. A situation arose in 2021 that I needed help. It took a lot of time & persistent phone calls, which landed me where I am today.

My interest of the mission & my passion drove me to dive in head first, never looking back. I had an opportunity to help make a real impact with other like minded individuals, I was hooked & devoted from day one. It started with trapping & led to being hands on at the clinic. Everyday the first one in & last one out, doing the dirty work, driven to learn more & more, to take on more tasks & roles. The 2nd year into that, I was doing the work of 2.5 people. The Executive Director (& Co-Founder) was my role model. I wanted to be just like him, have his knowledge, his passion, his motivation & dedication to improve the lives of animals. It was my goal to do anything I could to learn & relieve some of his pressure of being the sole leader. Then he quit, leaving us to figure it all out. It was put on me to be the leader. I didn't & still don't know what I'm doing really but I knew more than anyone else. I continued to do the work of 2.5 people but also had to be the leader, pick up pieces, figure out & learn as I went. It's been a year now, rocky at first but we are doing the best we ever have! We are finally (or very close) to where our Founders dreamt us to be. There have been so many various hurdles since forming in 2019, we can finally say, we're on the right path. And we have the numbers to prove it now!! From 2700 altered animals in 2023, to 6200 in 2024. We project the same this year.

Being a leader doesn't require an education or experience leading. It has been my strong will to succeed & my passion leading us. And I still clean poop, still the first one in & last one out. I do not know what a day off is but if that's what it takes to make an impact, I'm all in!

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Renee Smith
Operations Manager
Safe Harbor Animal Coalition
AL
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As President of Ten Lives Club, a nonprofit cat rescue founded by my family in our garage 24 years ago, I oversee the organization's strategic growth and assist with daily operations. I work with our fundraising teams, community partnerships, and manage our volunteer engagement. 

Who in your organization shows strong leadership in quiet or unconventional ways?
Our founder, Marie-my mother-is the definition of quiet leadership. She started Ten Lives Club 24 years ago in our family's garage, and her unwavering devotion is still the heartbeat of this organization. Over the years, she's seen some of the most brutal, heartbreaking sides of animal rescue-cases of neglect, cruelty, and loss that would break most people. She's been knocked down more times than I can count, but she always rises above it, stronger and more determined. Her leadership isn't loud or flashy. She'd rather not be on TV or in the pictures. It's in the way she never gives up on her dreams, and how she pushes forward no matter the odds. Her resilience and quiet commitment towards animal rescue have shaped TLC into what it is today! 

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Sallie Edwards
Board Member
Ten Lives Club
NY
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I recently lead a group of volunteers in developing a new way to communicate the importance of spay/neuter to the community.  We designed a set of educational games and implemented them at our annual 5k fundraiser.  Feedback tells us it was a success!

Cheryl May

foster mom & volunteer

Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue

Hoover (Birmingham), Alabama

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Cheryl May
Volunteer
Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue
AL
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This sounds exciting. I would like to do something Similar for dogs.  Would you be open to sharing what you developed so I could use it as a model?

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[Sharon] [Esempio]
[Manager]
[Paws Fur Recovery]
[www.pawsfurrecovery.org]
[Indiantown] , [FL
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-28-2025 12:22 PM
From: Cheryl May
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

I recently lead a group of volunteers in developing a new way to communicate the importance of spay/neuter to the community.  We designed a set of educational games and implemented them at our annual 5k fundraiser.  Feedback tells us it was a success!

Cheryl May

foster mom & volunteer

Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue

Hoover (Birmingham), Alabama

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Cheryl May
Volunteer
Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue
AL
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What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title? This is a great question! My background is from the corporate world where I managed an e-commerce division, was a sales manager, worked on special projects as well as training and developing the restructuring the customer service department. Since leaving the corporate world, I have now been a stay at home Mom/Mimi for almost six years now. I now volunteer in different areas in my community. I am an HOA Board member, PTA President and Foster/Grant Coordinator for Spring Branch Rescue. Although the word, leader, isn't in any of those titles, the skills and experience I gained in my corporate life have been used consistently in each of those positions. 
Used to wearing many hats simultaneously, through leadership skills and organization, I am better able to assist or guide others in coming together as one and achieve our end goal as close as possible. For example, in the HOA, I use these skills to ensure homeowners are given a fair opportunity in their requests as long as they're following our adopted guidelines and deed restrictions.  In the PTA, there was lack of structure and communication. Leadership must model clear communications and expectations as well as structure while building and maintaining relationships and understanding we are all together in ensuring the best experience for the students. In animal rescue, the same strategy applies to communicating to our fosters. It literally takes all of us to save the lives of the voiceless. We are one team and in it all together. Without us together, we can't save animals. Our team knows the dedication and work not just our director and I put in but all of us do. Together, we make Spring Branch Rescue. I am thankful for the leadership skills and experience I learned over the years so that I can continue to make a positive contribution and impact in our community and animal welfare. 

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[Mary] [Garcia]
[Foster/Grant Coordinator ]
[Spring Branch Rescue]
[Richmond] [TX
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Hi Everyone,

I actually ad to think about this all month.

For me 'leadership' and it's qualities is me doing something each day that improves a skill, gets a positive result or where I am guided to discover something fresh & new that will help us grow Emerald Ark into a successful, result-producing organization.

Thanks for all the great leadership examples everyone has shared.

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Leslie Moran
Executive Director
Emerald Ark
NV
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-29-2025 11:09 AM
From: Mary Garcia
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

What does leadership look like in your daily work, even if "leader" isn't in your title? This is a great question! My background is from the corporate world where I managed an e-commerce division, was a sales manager, worked on special projects as well as training and developing the restructuring the customer service department. Since leaving the corporate world, I have now been a stay at home Mom/Mimi for almost six years now. I now volunteer in different areas in my community. I am an HOA Board member, PTA President and Foster/Grant Coordinator for Spring Branch Rescue. Although the word, leader, isn't in any of those titles, the skills and experience I gained in my corporate life have been used consistently in each of those positions. 
Used to wearing many hats simultaneously, through leadership skills and organization, I am better able to assist or guide others in coming together as one and achieve our end goal as close as possible. For example, in the HOA, I use these skills to ensure homeowners are given a fair opportunity in their requests as long as they're following our adopted guidelines and deed restrictions.  In the PTA, there was lack of structure and communication. Leadership must model clear communications and expectations as well as structure while building and maintaining relationships and understanding we are all together in ensuring the best experience for the students. In animal rescue, the same strategy applies to communicating to our fosters. It literally takes all of us to save the lives of the voiceless. We are one team and in it all together. Without us together, we can't save animals. Our team knows the dedication and work not just our director and I put in but all of us do. Together, we make Spring Branch Rescue. I am thankful for the leadership skills and experience I learned over the years so that I can continue to make a positive contribution and impact in our community and animal welfare. 

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[Mary] [Garcia]
[Foster/Grant Coordinator ]
[Spring Branch Rescue]
[Richmond] [TX
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Thank you for posting these resources on leadership. I am a laissez-faire leader and looking to change that. 

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Shana McCawley
Vice President
Freed Spirits Animal Rescue
AZ
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Good Leaders lead by example.  Our Executive Director, Amy Rogers, can often be found doing laundry and dishes, between events, customer interactions and help cleaning the kennels.  She stays late to tuck everyone in and check the shelter is secure for the evening, night.  She takes care of the people tending to the animals and makes sure human and animal needs are met. She also addresses issues and tries to nip disputes in the bud before they escalate, when possible.  She acknowledges hard work and coaches the staff who need direction.  She deflects compliments and gives credit to her team.  She has a sense of humor and encourages fun when possible.  She also represents the shelter well to the public.

To me, these are all great leadership qualities that make a stressful shelter environment run a little smoother.  

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Amber Dennison
Board of Directors, President
Humane Society of the Ohio Valley
Marietta, OH
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Hi Amber,

Thanks for sharing.

Amy sounds wonderful.

Now I have a few more concrete goals to grow towards.

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Leslie Moran
Executive Director
Emerald Ark
NV
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-31-2025 05:28 AM
From: amber dennison
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Good Leaders lead by example.  Our Executive Director, Amy Rogers, can often be found doing laundry and dishes, between events, customer interactions and help cleaning the kennels.  She stays late to tuck everyone in and check the shelter is secure for the evening, night.  She takes care of the people tending to the animals and makes sure human and animal needs are met. She also addresses issues and tries to nip disputes in the bud before they escalate, when possible.  She acknowledges hard work and coaches the staff who need direction.  She deflects compliments and gives credit to her team.  She has a sense of humor and encourages fun when possible.  She also represents the shelter well to the public.

To me, these are all great leadership qualities that make a stressful shelter environment run a little smoother.  

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Amber Dennison
Board of Directors, President
Humane Society of the Ohio Valley
Marietta, OH
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Reading all of these post  is really  inspiring. In our organization we are always out to learn  about other rescues and how they operate, always getting good advice and ideas. #thankstomaddie

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Jo Lunsford
Manager
Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund
KY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 05-31-2025 05:28 AM
From: amber dennison
Subject: May 2025 Giveaway: Everyday Leadership in Animal Well-Being

Good Leaders lead by example.  Our Executive Director, Amy Rogers, can often be found doing laundry and dishes, between events, customer interactions and help cleaning the kennels.  She stays late to tuck everyone in and check the shelter is secure for the evening, night.  She takes care of the people tending to the animals and makes sure human and animal needs are met. She also addresses issues and tries to nip disputes in the bud before they escalate, when possible.  She acknowledges hard work and coaches the staff who need direction.  She deflects compliments and gives credit to her team.  She has a sense of humor and encourages fun when possible.  She also represents the shelter well to the public.

To me, these are all great leadership qualities that make a stressful shelter environment run a little smoother.  

------------------------------
Amber Dennison
Board of Directors, President
Humane Society of the Ohio Valley
Marietta, OH
------------------------------

Leadership at HSNEI - Everyday Heroes Making a Difference

Leadership absolutely happens at every level! At HSNEI, I see quiet leadership daily from our incredible team members and volunteers.

Our Executive Director demonstrates servant-leadership as she handles an overload of responsibilities with grace. She remains positive and responds kindly to internal team members and members of the public alike. She leads by example and tries to offer solutions that allow individuals an opportunity to make their own choices.

Our Volunteer Staff show leadership by mentoring new volunteers, helping them find the perfect role match, and creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued. They turn nervous first-timers into confident advocates.

Our Event Volunteers step up as leaders during events like our annual Tails & Treasures auction event that raises funds to feed in-custody animals. They take initiative to problem-solve on the spot, guide other volunteers, and ensure things run smoothly - all without being asked.

There are more examples; however, I will not keep going! In rural Northeast Iowa, leadership often means being resourceful, collaborative, and willing to wear many hats. Our "leaders" are the people who see a need and say "I can help with that" - whether it's organizing supply drives, training new TNR volunteers, or simply showing up consistently.

Our everyday leaders make HSNEI stronger and help us more effectively serve the animals and people in need across our service area.

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Bobbi Underbakke
Board Director
Humane Society of Northeast Iowa
IA
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1. As the owner of LC'S Detroit Pet Salon, leadership is something I live out every day - not just through managing the business, but by creating a calm, respectful space for both pets and people. It means showing up early, setting the tone, and staying hands-on in everything from client care to grooming techniques. I lead by example - showing my team what professionalism, patience, and compassion look like in action. Even without a formal title, leadership is about being consistent, adaptable, and solution-oriented.
2. One of the most rewarding things I've done is mentoring aspiring groomers - especially through our partnerships with grooming schools and LC'S Foundation. I've helped team members build confidence and skillsets that led them to successful careers. I also launched a one-on-one grooming model at the salon to reduce pet stress, which not only improved the grooming experience but set a new customer service standard that clients now love and expect. Small changes like this have made a big difference in how we care for pets.
3. Some of the quietest leaders at LC'S Detroit Pet Salon would be myself since I'm a one woman show. I go the extra mile without being asked - like I take extra time with nervous dogs or the front desk person who remembers the small details that make clients feel special. Their actions might not always be visible, but they lead by heart and hustle. Their consistency, care, and commitment to excellence are powerful forms of leadership that deserve recognition.

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LaTonya (Tonya) Smith
Founder, Trailblazer, Animal welfare advocate
LC'S Foundation
MI
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