Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, animal shelter workers, volunteers and animal welfare leaders from across the country have been meeting every Monday morning at 7am PT/10am ET to discuss protocols, ideas, obstacles they’re facing and more.  

Led by Kristen Hassen-Auerbach, Director of Pima Animal Care in Tucson, AZ, these calls have provided an opportunity for people to connect that otherwise may not have even met.   

“The purpose of these calls is simple – maintain connection among shelter professionals, provide support and comradery, and share science-based news and information along with emerging best practices in animal welfare,” Hassen-Auerbach says. “These calls are always lively and interesting and we’re not afraid to debate and share different perspectives from the attendees. You can take center stage and share your thoughts and ideas in front of several hundred of your colleagues or quietly drink your morning coffee and listen in.” 

For many, these calls have been an invaluable resource. “When the subject of DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) came to the front of all of our minds, the calls adapted and we had a space to again learn from one another,” said Emily Klehm from South Suburban Humane Society in Chicago Heights, IL. “The calls have been my go-to source for grant information, statistics and trends. I’ve also been able to identify and connect to colleagues working on the same issues in similar communities.” 

Dr. Ellen Jefferson, Executive Director at Austin Pets Alive! adds, “We hear from people in the industry who have important information related to COVID, new programming and research.  This is information you can’t possibly get in your day to day work at your local shelter.” 

If you’re a shelter professional, dedicated volunteer or run a rescue organization, we want you to join us! Bookmark this link and we will see you on Monday!

Note: The calls are recorded so if you can’t make it, you can listen in later. If you haven’t already, join the Facebook group to access the link to recorded calls and to connect with others on there.