Bellevue is very special to me as it is where I live, work, and raise my family. I have been a Bellevue resident since 2010. Currently, I work in the accounting consulting services department as a Senior Manager at Clark Nuber. In my spare time, I like to be involved in the community and help whenever I can. My current community engagements include serving as a mentor to students at the UW Bothell School of Business, a Grant Chair for the PTSA at Odle Middle School, and the past chair of Homeward Pet, which I have served for the last five years. My family adopted all of our furry babies from local animal shelters because we believe in giving the shelter animals a second chance and a forever loving home.   

Homeward Pet Adoption Center stands as a beacon of hope for cats and dogs in need throughout Washington State. As a leading nonprofit, no-kill shelter, Homeward Pet's mission transcends simply providing shelter; it's about transforming lives. Through compassionate medical care, positive behavior training, and successful adoptions, Homeward Pet not only rescues animals but also cultivates a more humane community. Their commitment to animal welfare extends beyond the walls of the shelter, encompassing innovative programs designed to keep pets in their homes and facilitate direct rehoming when necessary.

Unlike government-funded shelters, Homeward Pet operates as a private organization, relying entirely on the generosity of individual donors and the tireless efforts of volunteers. This financial independence allows them to create a robust and comprehensive program that goes far beyond basic intake and adoption services. It empowers them to embrace cutting-edge practices like Fear Free Sheltering, ensuring every animal receives individualized care tailored to their specific needs.

Fear Free Sheltering is a cornerstone of Homeward Pet's approach. Recognizing that each animal is unique, the shelter's team conducts thorough assessments to understand the individual behavioral and medical needs of every cat and dog in their care. This personalized approach allows them to provide targeted interventions, whether it's specialized medical treatment, behavioral modification training, or a loving, temporary home through their foster program. Animals who might be overlooked or deemed "unadoptable" in other shelters receive a second chance at Homeward Pet thanks to the resources and expertise made available through donor support. This commitment to treating each animal as an individual and understanding their unique history and challenges is what sets Homeward Pet apart.

The impact of Homeward Pet's work is profound. Beyond the immediate rescue and care of animals, their programs address the root causes of animal homelessness. One crucial aspect of their mission is working proactively with pet owners to prevent animals from entering the shelter system in the first place. Recognizing that surrendering a pet is often a heartbreaking decision driven by difficult circumstances, Homeward Pet offers support and resources to help owners explore alternatives. They work collaboratively with individuals facing challenges like financial hardship, housing instability, or behavioral issues, striving to find solutions that allow pets to remain in their loving homes. This proactive approach not only reduces the number of animals entering the shelter system but also strengthens the bond between humans and their animal companions.

When rehoming becomes unavoidable, Homeward Pet offers an innovative solution called "Home to Home." This program provides a platform for owners to directly connect with potential adopters, bypassing the shelter environment altogether. Home to Home empowers owners to find the perfect match for their beloved pets, ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing the stress associated with rehoming. By facilitating direct connections, Home to Home keeps animals out of the shelter system, freeing up resources for those who have nowhere else to turn. This program underscores Homeward Pet's commitment to finding creative and compassionate solutions to the complex issue of animal homelessness.

Homeward Pet is more than just a shelter; it's a community of compassionate individuals dedicated to creating a world where every animal has a safe and loving home. Their holistic approach encompassing rescue, medical care, behavior training, and community outreach, makes them a true leader in animal welfare. By supporting Homeward Pet you are not just donating to a cause; you are investing in a future where animals are valued, protected, and cherished members of our society. Their work transforms the lives of animals, enriches the lives of humans, and strengthens the bonds that connect us all.