GUEST: Lisa LaFontaine is president and chief executive officer of the Humane Rescue Alliance, based in Washington, DC. In 2019, Lisa oversaw the merger of the Humane Rescue Alliance with St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center to create the first regional, community-based, multi-state animal welfare organization in the nation. The organization is the largest provider of animal services in that region, touching the lives of more than 100,000 animals each year. Lisa was also CEO of New Hampshire’s Monadnock Humane Society. She has served as board member and chairman of the board of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, the National Federation of Humane Societies, and the New England Federation of Humane Societies.
MAIN QUESTION: What lessons have you learned from the pandemic that have led your organization to be even more community facing?
TAKEAWAYS:
- Remember that animals are social connectors. They can build community and bring people together who otherwise might feel they have nothing to talk about.
- Expand your foster program. This is a great way to start for organizations looking to become a more integral part of their communities. It engages the public, inspiring them to become advocates for animals as they help find good new homes for them.
- Look into creating virtual support for foster caregivers, such as telemedicine from staff veterinarians and behavior classes or videos with trainers or behaviorists.
- Use staff and volunteers who have strong skills to mentor other staff, such as with hosting events over Zoom or taking photos.
- Seek more feedback, such as surveys of your volunteers, supporters, and adopters. You can also hold Zoom meetings with volunteers to get their feedback. Volunteers and supporters are a great conduit between your organization and the rest of your community.
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