About Us
A New Conversation
At Supporting People and Animal Relationships for Change (SPARC), we believe that stories and messaging have a profound impact on the lives of animals and people.
In animal care and well-being, the words we use and the stories we tell are powerful.
They are essential for creating healthier, happier communities for animals and people. They are critical for building work cultures where we can all thrive.
Our Approach
We believe in the power of your voice and experience.
At SPARC, we use evidence-based concepts like systems framing, empathic listening, and communicating with dignity.
We create messaging resources, learning opportunities, and support for the amazing individuals dedicated to the well-being of animals and their people.
This work is stronger with all of us.
Inclusion is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation at SPARC. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion allow us all to do our best work for animals and people.
We are committed to excellence in narratives and learning as inextricably linked to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.
Our Staff & Advisory Committee
Next to my front door there is a large, bright yellow poster that says “work hard and be nice to people”. It resonates with me everyday. I’ve been fortunate to be part of animal well-being and sheltering organizations across the U.S, doing everything from mucking barns to adoptions to behavior. I spent a decade focused on dog and cat programs around the globe, supporting local projects and helping develop workshops for communities to define and implement their own solutions. In 2016, I co-founded Impact by Design, a consulting firm for animal welfare, conservation, and environment organizations. My focus was on facilitation, planning, training design, and business operations. The organization continues to thrive today.
Along the way I earned a Bachelor’s in English with Honors in Writing from University of Michigan, a Master’s in Animals and Public Policy from Tufts University, and a Global MBA from IE University in Madrid, Spain. Today I bring all of these experiences together as the Executive Director of SPARC, supporting a mission close to my heart.
I currently live in Maryland with my husband, two lively kids, two dogs, a cat who fancies himself a dog, and the occasional foster rabbits.
Next to my front door there is a large, bright yellow poster that says “work hard and be nice to people”. It resonates with me everyday. I’ve been fortunate to be part of animal well-being and sheltering organizations across the U.S, doing everything from mucking barns to adoptions to behavior. I spent a decade focused on dog and cat programs around the globe, supporting local projects and helping develop workshops for communities to define and implement their own solutions. In 2016, I co-founded Impact by Design, a consulting firm for animal welfare, conservation, and environment organizations. My focus was on facilitation, planning, training design, and business operations. The organization continues to thrive today.
Along the way I earned a Bachelor’s in English with Honors in Writing from University of Michigan, a Master’s in Animals and Public Policy from Tufts University, and a Global MBA from IE University in Madrid, Spain. Today I bring all of these experiences together as the Executive Director of SPARC, supporting a mission close to my heart.
I currently live in Maryland with my husband, two lively kids, two dogs, a cat who fancies himself a dog, and the occasional foster rabbits.
Janel Griffieth is a seasoned nonprofit leader with nearly a decade of expertise in community engagement, organizational development, and animal welfare. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to build strategic relationships with businesses, funders, and community organizations, driving impactful outcomes for marginalized populations.
Janel's commitment to community well-being is rooted in her educational background, having earned a degree in Public Health from the University of South Florida. It was during her college years that she began her advocacy against domestic violence—a cause deeply personal to her. This passion led her to serve as a Community Engagement Manager at a local domestic violence organization, and she continues to champion this issue today. Janel has shared her insights at the Florida Domestic Violence Conference, where she emphasized the critical role of supporting survivors and their pets.
Her professional journey in animal welfare began in 2015 when she started as a Pet Adoption Specialist. Over the years, she was promoted multiple times, ultimately leading the development of a neonatal program that served thousands of the most fragile lives. Along the way, she created systems, managed teams and volunteers, and fostered a strong sense of community. Her innovative work in program management, volunteer recruitment, and community education transformed lifesaving efforts in the animal well-being space.
Janel has also contributed her talents to two national organizations, where she led initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for BIPOC-led nonprofits and spearheaded community efforts that support animal welfare initiatives. Her work in DEI has been instrumental in fostering more inclusive, equitable practices across the sector.
Beyond her professional achievements, Janel is a devoted animal foster parent, having cared for over 200 animals in her home. She is a city-appointed board member for the Pinellas Opportunity Council, working to alleviate poverty and empower communities. She also serves as a Strategic Advisor for the Orphan Kitten Club, helping organizations increase lifesaving measures for kittens; and a Program Leader for the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) Tampa Bay.
Janel’s key skills include project management, public speaking, planning and coordination, leadership, creating systems, and team management. Highly organized and strategic, she thrives in environments that require innovative problem-solving and the ability to drive meaningful change.
Janel resides in the Tampa Bay area with her two beloved dogs, Tupac and RZA, and cherishes the memory of her late ‘souldog,’ Dre, whose profound impact continues to shape her life.
Janel Griffieth is a seasoned nonprofit leader with nearly a decade of expertise in community engagement, organizational development, and animal welfare. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to build strategic relationships with businesses, funders, and community organizations, driving impactful outcomes for marginalized populations.
Janel's commitment to community well-being is rooted in her educational background, having earned a degree in Public Health from the University of South Florida. It was during her college years that she began her advocacy against domestic violence—a cause deeply personal to her. This passion led her to serve as a Community Engagement Manager at a local domestic violence organization, and she continues to champion this issue today. Janel has shared her insights at the Florida Domestic Violence Conference, where she emphasized the critical role of supporting survivors and their pets.
Her professional journey in animal welfare began in 2015 when she started as a Pet Adoption Specialist. Over the years, she was promoted multiple times, ultimately leading the development of a neonatal program that served thousands of the most fragile lives. Along the way, she created systems, managed teams and volunteers, and fostered a strong sense of community. Her innovative work in program management, volunteer recruitment, and community education transformed lifesaving efforts in the animal well-being space.
Janel has also contributed her talents to two national organizations, where she led initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for BIPOC-led nonprofits and spearheaded community efforts that support animal welfare initiatives. Her work in DEI has been instrumental in fostering more inclusive, equitable practices across the sector.
Beyond her professional achievements, Janel is a devoted animal foster parent, having cared for over 200 animals in her home. She is a city-appointed board member for the Pinellas Opportunity Council, working to alleviate poverty and empower communities. She also serves as a Strategic Advisor for the Orphan Kitten Club, helping organizations increase lifesaving measures for kittens; and a Program Leader for the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) Tampa Bay.
Janel’s key skills include project management, public speaking, planning and coordination, leadership, creating systems, and team management. Highly organized and strategic, she thrives in environments that require innovative problem-solving and the ability to drive meaningful change.
Janel resides in the Tampa Bay area with her two beloved dogs, Tupac and RZA, and cherishes the memory of her late ‘souldog,’ Dre, whose profound impact continues to shape her life.
Jillian is a strong advocate for animals and the people who love them. In her previous role as the Executive Director of Companion Animal Alliance in Baton Rouge, LA, Jillian’s work demonstrated a commitment to the bond between pets and people. She prioritized programming that created access to care and treated pet families across diverse communities with dignity and compassion. She is determined, kind, and not afraid to roll up her sleeves and dig into problems - she understands the realities of animal sheltering and the barriers we often face to change.
With more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit management, Jillian brings a wealth of knowledge in program development, operations, and building strategic partnerships. Jillian is a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) and currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two children, two dogs, and one cat.
Jillian is a strong advocate for animals and the people who love them. In her previous role as the Executive Director of Companion Animal Alliance in Baton Rouge, LA, Jillian’s work demonstrated a commitment to the bond between pets and people. She prioritized programming that created access to care and treated pet families across diverse communities with dignity and compassion. She is determined, kind, and not afraid to roll up her sleeves and dig into problems - she understands the realities of animal sheltering and the barriers we often face to change.
With more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit management, Jillian brings a wealth of knowledge in program development, operations, and building strategic partnerships. Jillian is a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) and currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two children, two dogs, and one cat.
Raissa Allaire has been leading Tree House Humane Society since May 2018, bringing over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, strategy, and communications. Before joining Tree House, she served as COO of a social services organization and as Vice President/Chief of Staff at a Chicago museum. She also honed her storytelling and advocacy skills as an account executive, managing communications campaigns for major nonprofit clients.
Under Raissa’s leadership, Tree House has expanded its impact, including the launch of the Tree House Veterinary Wellness Center in 2021, a bold rebrand in 2019, and quadrupling the organization’s reserves to ensure long-term sustainability. She has also played a key role in collaboration, serving as prior co-chair of the Chicagoland Humane Coalition and currently as a board member of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement.
Raissa was selected for the Allstate-Kellogg Greater Good Nonprofit Leadership Program and holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Chicago.
Outside of work, she and her family share their home with two orange tabbies, and she finds joy in gardening, Harvard Business Review articles, and exploring the potential of AI in animal welfare and social impact work.
Raissa Allaire has been leading Tree House Humane Society since May 2018, bringing over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, strategy, and communications. Before joining Tree House, she served as COO of a social services organization and as Vice President/Chief of Staff at a Chicago museum. She also honed her storytelling and advocacy skills as an account executive, managing communications campaigns for major nonprofit clients.
Under Raissa’s leadership, Tree House has expanded its impact, including the launch of the Tree House Veterinary Wellness Center in 2021, a bold rebrand in 2019, and quadrupling the organization’s reserves to ensure long-term sustainability. She has also played a key role in collaboration, serving as prior co-chair of the Chicagoland Humane Coalition and currently as a board member of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement.
Raissa was selected for the Allstate-Kellogg Greater Good Nonprofit Leadership Program and holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Chicago.
Outside of work, she and her family share their home with two orange tabbies, and she finds joy in gardening, Harvard Business Review articles, and exploring the potential of AI in animal welfare and social impact work.
Mike Keiley has been working in animal welfare since 1994. He currently works as the Vice President of the Animal Protection Division for the MSPCA-Angell. In this role he oversees the programs and operations of the MSPCA-Angell’s four adoption centers, three community clinics, a robust community outreach program that is active in nine key communities, the Advocacy Department, Humane Law Enforcement that investigates animal neglect/cruelty across state wide, the Equine and Farm Animal Program, and New England’s largest relocation program. Combined these programs help positively impact 110,000 animals annually.
Although Mike has spent his entire career working for the MSPCA-Angell, he believes strongly that all animal welfare organizations are an interconnected field, and as such he works hard to support and improve the greater animal welfare movement. He does this by presenting at local, regional and national conferences and webinars, directly mentoring multiple shelters in MA and out of state, assisting colleagues that reach out for advice, and serving on boards that benefit animal welfare.
Mike currently serves as the board chair for Shelter Animals Count, a national organization focused on the collection of data from the animal welfare field. He also currently serves as a trustee for the John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation, a granting organization for the animal welfare, land preservation and higher education fields. Mike also served as a board member of the New England Federation of Humane Societies, an organization that provides information and education to the New England animal welfare field, for nearly 20 years.
Mike Keiley has been working in animal welfare since 1994. He currently works as the Vice President of the Animal Protection Division for the MSPCA-Angell. In this role he oversees the programs and operations of the MSPCA-Angell’s four adoption centers, three community clinics, a robust community outreach program that is active in nine key communities, the Advocacy Department, Humane Law Enforcement that investigates animal neglect/cruelty across state wide, the Equine and Farm Animal Program, and New England’s largest relocation program. Combined these programs help positively impact 110,000 animals annually.
Although Mike has spent his entire career working for the MSPCA-Angell, he believes strongly that all animal welfare organizations are an interconnected field, and as such he works hard to support and improve the greater animal welfare movement. He does this by presenting at local, regional and national conferences and webinars, directly mentoring multiple shelters in MA and out of state, assisting colleagues that reach out for advice, and serving on boards that benefit animal welfare.
Mike currently serves as the board chair for Shelter Animals Count, a national organization focused on the collection of data from the animal welfare field. He also currently serves as a trustee for the John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation, a granting organization for the animal welfare, land preservation and higher education fields. Mike also served as a board member of the New England Federation of Humane Societies, an organization that provides information and education to the New England animal welfare field, for nearly 20 years.
Lisa has served as Executive Director and now, President & CEO, for the New Hampshire SPCA for more than 30 years. She has served multiple terms as President, Legislative Chair and currently serves as an Advisor for the NH Federation of Humane Organizations. She has presented at Association for Animal Welfare Advancement Annual Conference and HSUS Animal Care Expo. She has served on the former PetSmart Charities Thought Leader Round Tables, the Companion Animal Advisory Council, Evolution of Animal Welfare Task Force and currently serves on SPARC.
Lisa recently was presented with a Commendation for Outstanding Service from Governor Christopher Sununu for her leadership and years of service to the NHSPCA, having been an advocate for stronger laws to protect animals and for her efforts to further animal welfare in NH. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of New Hampshire and a Masters in Organization and Management from Antioch New England Graduate School.
Lisa has served as Executive Director and now, President & CEO, for the New Hampshire SPCA for more than 30 years. She has served multiple terms as President, Legislative Chair and currently serves as an Advisor for the NH Federation of Humane Organizations. She has presented at Association for Animal Welfare Advancement Annual Conference and HSUS Animal Care Expo. She has served on the former PetSmart Charities Thought Leader Round Tables, the Companion Animal Advisory Council, Evolution of Animal Welfare Task Force and currently serves on SPARC.
Lisa recently was presented with a Commendation for Outstanding Service from Governor Christopher Sununu for her leadership and years of service to the NHSPCA, having been an advocate for stronger laws to protect animals and for her efforts to further animal welfare in NH. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of New Hampshire and a Masters in Organization and Management from Antioch New England Graduate School.
Kate Meghji serves as the Vice President of Animal Welfare for the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington D.C. At the Humane Rescue Alliance, we honor more than 150 years of commitment to protecting animals, supporting families, and advocating for positive change to create a world where all animals can thrive. HRA serves as a national leader and local champion for all animals. With a people-focused, community-based approach, we treat every animal as an individual and emphasize specialized care for both animals and their families. Through our five campuses in the District of Columbia and New Jersey, we are the largest animal services provider in our region – touching the lives of tens of thousands of animals annually through direct rescue, care, and community-based services.
Kate has nearly 2 decades of experience in the field of animal care and sheltering. She served as CEO for the Humane Society of Vero Beach in Florida, the executive director of the Lawrence Humane Society in Kansas and was previously the executive director of Sinai Temple in Champaign Illinois, and shelter manager for the Champaign County Humane Society. Meghji holds an M.B.A. from University of Illinois in Urbana and a B.S. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Evergreen State College in Washington.
Kate Meghji serves as the Vice President of Animal Welfare for the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington D.C. At the Humane Rescue Alliance, we honor more than 150 years of commitment to protecting animals, supporting families, and advocating for positive change to create a world where all animals can thrive. HRA serves as a national leader and local champion for all animals. With a people-focused, community-based approach, we treat every animal as an individual and emphasize specialized care for both animals and their families. Through our five campuses in the District of Columbia and New Jersey, we are the largest animal services provider in our region – touching the lives of tens of thousands of animals annually through direct rescue, care, and community-based services.
Kate has nearly 2 decades of experience in the field of animal care and sheltering. She served as CEO for the Humane Society of Vero Beach in Florida, the executive director of the Lawrence Humane Society in Kansas and was previously the executive director of Sinai Temple in Champaign Illinois, and shelter manager for the Champaign County Humane Society. Meghji holds an M.B.A. from University of Illinois in Urbana and a B.S. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Evergreen State College in Washington.
Jan McHugh-Smith, CAWA, was most recently the CEO of the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, a Socially Conscious Shelter that houses 5500 animals annually. In addition to adoptions and lost & found services, the organization offers public veterinary care, behavior and training expertise, and a robust safety net program. Passionate about keeping people and pets together, Jan’s experience over the past 39 years includes being President & CEO of the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, San Francisco SPCA President, and Eagle County Animal Control Director. Jan is the past Chair of Shelter Animals Count, the Association for the Advancement of Animal Welfare, and the CATalyst Council.
Jan is an avid mountain biker, birder, paddleboarder, and certified yoga instructor. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and three dogs.
Jan McHugh-Smith, CAWA, was most recently the CEO of the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, a Socially Conscious Shelter that houses 5500 animals annually. In addition to adoptions and lost & found services, the organization offers public veterinary care, behavior and training expertise, and a robust safety net program. Passionate about keeping people and pets together, Jan’s experience over the past 39 years includes being President & CEO of the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, San Francisco SPCA President, and Eagle County Animal Control Director. Jan is the past Chair of Shelter Animals Count, the Association for the Advancement of Animal Welfare, and the CATalyst Council.
Jan is an avid mountain biker, birder, paddleboarder, and certified yoga instructor. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and three dogs.
Brad Shear is the Chief Executive Officer of the Potter League for Animals in Rhode Island. Brad is one of three Certified Animal Welfare Administrators (CAWA) in the state. During his tenure, Brad has expanded existing programs and created new partnerships, including acquiring the state's largest spay and neuter clinic and the state's largest full-service non-profit veterinary clinic. Brad is a frequent speaker at regional and national animal welfare conferences.
In addition to his work at the Potter League, Brad has served as board chair of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, chaired their Best Practices and Emerging Trends Committee, and serves on their Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee. Brad also serves on the Hill's Pet Nutrition Shelter Advisory Council and the New England Federation of Humane Societies' advisory committee.
Before leading the Potter League, Brad served ten years as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in New York's Capital Region. During that time, Brad was one of the founders of the New York State Animal Protection Federation, serving as Board President for seven years. He also served on the Community Works of New York State Board and was chair of the Tech Valley Non-profit Business Council.
In 2013, Brad received the Badge of Honor Award from the Albany County District Attorney's Office, and in 2016, he received the President's Medal from Excelsior College. In 2017, he received the Community Hero Award from Unity House of Troy. In 2018, Brad was named a "Man Who Makes a Difference" by the Women's Resource Center in Newport, Rhode Island.
Before his time in Albany, Brad was the Director of Operations for the Atlanta Humane Society. During that time, he served on the advisory committee of the Georgia Governor's Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board. Previously, Brad managed the Brooklyn Shelter for New York City Animal Care and Control.
Brad began his animal welfare career at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley in Colorado. He managed animal shelter and animal control programs, was a commissioned cruelty investigator, and served as the director of the Boulder County Animal Response Team.
Brad was born and raised in New York City, received his bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and currently lives in Peace Dale, Rhode Island, with his wife, two children, one dog, and three cats
Brad Shear is the Chief Executive Officer of the Potter League for Animals in Rhode Island. Brad is one of three Certified Animal Welfare Administrators (CAWA) in the state. During his tenure, Brad has expanded existing programs and created new partnerships, including acquiring the state's largest spay and neuter clinic and the state's largest full-service non-profit veterinary clinic. Brad is a frequent speaker at regional and national animal welfare conferences.
In addition to his work at the Potter League, Brad has served as board chair of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, chaired their Best Practices and Emerging Trends Committee, and serves on their Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee. Brad also serves on the Hill's Pet Nutrition Shelter Advisory Council and the New England Federation of Humane Societies' advisory committee.
Before leading the Potter League, Brad served ten years as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in New York's Capital Region. During that time, Brad was one of the founders of the New York State Animal Protection Federation, serving as Board President for seven years. He also served on the Community Works of New York State Board and was chair of the Tech Valley Non-profit Business Council.
In 2013, Brad received the Badge of Honor Award from the Albany County District Attorney's Office, and in 2016, he received the President's Medal from Excelsior College. In 2017, he received the Community Hero Award from Unity House of Troy. In 2018, Brad was named a "Man Who Makes a Difference" by the Women's Resource Center in Newport, Rhode Island.
Before his time in Albany, Brad was the Director of Operations for the Atlanta Humane Society. During that time, he served on the advisory committee of the Georgia Governor's Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board. Previously, Brad managed the Brooklyn Shelter for New York City Animal Care and Control.
Brad began his animal welfare career at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley in Colorado. He managed animal shelter and animal control programs, was a commissioned cruelty investigator, and served as the director of the Boulder County Animal Response Team.
Brad was born and raised in New York City, received his bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and currently lives in Peace Dale, Rhode Island, with his wife, two children, one dog, and three cats
Amanda Arrington is the Vice President of Access to Care at Humane World for Animals overseeing the Pets for Life (PFL) and Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) programs. Amanda previously served as a lobbyist and North Carolina State Director for HSUS. Amanda guides a social justice-driven approach to create equity in and access to pet resources and information for people in underserved communities. Under her leadership the PFL and RAVS programs are implemented in over 60 markets across the country and are working to make companion animal welfare a more just and inclusive movement.
Amanda is also the founder and Executive Director of Beyond Fences, a non-profit based in Durham, NC. The organization builds trust and relationships in communities by providing no-fee pet services and support for people living in underserved areas. Amanda currently serves as co-chair of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement’s DEI committee and received the prestigious American Veterinary Medical Association Humane Award in 2018.
Amanda Arrington is the Vice President of Access to Care at Humane World for Animals overseeing the Pets for Life (PFL) and Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) programs. Amanda previously served as a lobbyist and North Carolina State Director for HSUS. Amanda guides a social justice-driven approach to create equity in and access to pet resources and information for people in underserved communities. Under her leadership the PFL and RAVS programs are implemented in over 60 markets across the country and are working to make companion animal welfare a more just and inclusive movement.
Amanda is also the founder and Executive Director of Beyond Fences, a non-profit based in Durham, NC. The organization builds trust and relationships in communities by providing no-fee pet services and support for people living in underserved areas. Amanda currently serves as co-chair of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement’s DEI committee and received the prestigious American Veterinary Medical Association Humane Award in 2018.
Alison Fotsch is the President & CEO of the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) and has been with the organization since 2007. Prior to stepping into the CEO role, Alison held the position of Executive Vice President, supporting the people & culture, communications, development, and shelter operations functions of the organization. She has served also as the Vice President of Animal Sheltering, Racine Campus Director, Client Services Manager, and Senior Adoption Counselor.
She is a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA), a member of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA), and a board member of Shelter Animals Count (SAC). Alison has an MS in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a concentration in Shelter Medicine from the University of Florida, an MA from Alverno College, and a BS from Marquette University. Alison is driven by a desire for continuous learning and a passion for growing and developing skilled leaders. She leads with a people-centered philosophy, acknowledging that we can have the greatest impact for animals by believing in and partnering with those who love them.
Alison Fotsch is the President & CEO of the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) and has been with the organization since 2007. Prior to stepping into the CEO role, Alison held the position of Executive Vice President, supporting the people & culture, communications, development, and shelter operations functions of the organization. She has served also as the Vice President of Animal Sheltering, Racine Campus Director, Client Services Manager, and Senior Adoption Counselor.
She is a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA), a member of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA), and a board member of Shelter Animals Count (SAC). Alison has an MS in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a concentration in Shelter Medicine from the University of Florida, an MA from Alverno College, and a BS from Marquette University. Alison is driven by a desire for continuous learning and a passion for growing and developing skilled leaders. She leads with a people-centered philosophy, acknowledging that we can have the greatest impact for animals by believing in and partnering with those who love them.
Abigail Smith serves as the Executive Director of the Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk, Maine. Since her arrival in 2015, Abigail opened the first, and still only, full-service nonprofit veterinary clinic in the state. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Maine Federation of Humane Societies, on the Board of Directors of the New England Federation of Humane Societies, and as the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement’s representative for the Northeast Region.
Prior to moving back to New England, Abigail served as the Chief Animal Services Officer for the City of Austin and Travis County, Texas. While there, Smith successfully completed and transitioned Austin Animal Services to the new Austin Animal Center, was a leading member of Capitol Area Shelter Hub group for response to local and statewide disaster events and, on behalf of the City of Austin, received the 2013 Maddie’s Fund Lifesaving Award.
Prior to her time in Austin, Abigail was the Executive Director of the Tompkins County SPCA in Ithaca, New York. While in Ithaca, Abigail implemented a comprehensive shelter medicine and behavior program in partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program and was a founding member and Vice President of the New York State Animal Protection Federation. Abigail went to New York after serving as the Director of Development at the New Hampshire SPCA and before that as the Executive Director of the Sexual Violence Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Abigail Smith serves as the Executive Director of the Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk, Maine. Since her arrival in 2015, Abigail opened the first, and still only, full-service nonprofit veterinary clinic in the state. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Maine Federation of Humane Societies, on the Board of Directors of the New England Federation of Humane Societies, and as the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement’s representative for the Northeast Region.
Prior to moving back to New England, Abigail served as the Chief Animal Services Officer for the City of Austin and Travis County, Texas. While there, Smith successfully completed and transitioned Austin Animal Services to the new Austin Animal Center, was a leading member of Capitol Area Shelter Hub group for response to local and statewide disaster events and, on behalf of the City of Austin, received the 2013 Maddie’s Fund Lifesaving Award.
Prior to her time in Austin, Abigail was the Executive Director of the Tompkins County SPCA in Ithaca, New York. While in Ithaca, Abigail implemented a comprehensive shelter medicine and behavior program in partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program and was a founding member and Vice President of the New York State Animal Protection Federation. Abigail went to New York after serving as the Director of Development at the New Hampshire SPCA and before that as the Executive Director of the Sexual Violence Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
A Short History of SPARC
Our work on narrative change began in the winter of 2022 with a big, gnarly question - “How can we address the problems with messaging?” We knew there were concerns, divisions, and angst around messaging in our sector and wanted to take a giant step to figure them out.
After years of working together on trends in New England, we dove into this challenge. The Advisory Committee expanded to include leaders from across the U.S. and we got to work. In the spring of 2023, we began presenting our ideas at conferences and were blown away by the response. There was so much interest in better messaging and new narratives that we were inspired to keep the work going.
Today we are an organization dedicated to messaging, storytelling, and narratives for animals and people together. We are as excited as ever to see where this work can go and hopeful about the future.
Don't Be Judgy!
Using our energy to shame and vilify people undermines our ability to help animals. Let’s drop the judgment and channel our passion into what matters most.
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Office
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SPARC is a 501c3 fiscally sponsored project of the Humane America Animal Foundation.
We are deeply grateful to our fiscal sponsor and their continued support
