I'm originally from a small town in Maine, but in 2021, I packed up everything I could fit in my car (including my dog!) and made the move out West to Oregon. I live an active lifestyle and enjoy lifting weights, running, and paddle boarding. I am also an assistant Track & Field coach at my local high school. More than anything, I love spending time with my rescue animals and my partner, especially outdoors exploring the Pacific Northwest. 

I have always felt a deep connection to animals, and my three beloved rescue dogs are my world. Lana, my first dog, came from a shelter in Maine. She went through college with me back East and even lived in the dorms! After moving across the country to Oregon, we adopted Cleo, who was found as a pregnant stray in California. Most recently, we adopted Iris, a super senior surrendered to a high-kill shelter in Texas. Each of them has such a unique and lovable personality, and they enrich my life beyond measure. I also have three guinea pigs who I found abandoned in the woods at a local park.

I vacationed to Troncones in March 2023 and met Eva, Surfer's for Strays’ Executive Director, at a local cafe. We chatted about rescue dogs, exchanged contact information, and the rest is history! I was immediately inspired by SFS’s deep-rooted commitment to the local community. And as someone with a soft spot for special needs animals, I was especially moved by the organization’s dedication to this often-overlooked population. I knew right away it was a group I wanted to be a part of. 

During my time volunteering for SFS, I’ve written dog bios and fundraising campaigns, served as a flight escort, short-term foster, and dog transporter, and I am also a member of the newsletter team. My favorite part of volunteering for SFS is working with fellow rescue lovers from around the world, and following along with the dogs’ journeys to their forever homes. It's an honor to play a small part in an organization that brings so much joy and hope to humans and animals alike!