Melissa

I have been volunteering and fostering dogs for over 15 yrs.  I have worked with Animal Haven in NYC, Faithful Friends in DE and Milo’s Foundation in CA.  I have a special place in my heart for seniors and neglected animals and I believe that no matter what their age or circumstance, they deserve a chance.  I hold an MBA in Finance from the University of Delaware and I worked in the banking industry managing client relationships for 18 yrs.   

My husband and I started Angel’s Retreat to serve as a resource for special needs and senior dogs.  It has since grown into a rescue which serves dogs of all ages, breeds and needs.  We live on the property where Angel’s Retreat is housed, and the dogs receive 24/7 care.  I’ve retired from banking and I run Angel’s Retreat full time.

Nicole

Hi everyone! I have volunteered and worked in animal rescue for over 12 years. There is no denying that rescue work is not always easy, but I have truly had the opportunity to meet some of the best parts of humanity in the form of fellow volunteers, supporters, and adopters. My lifelong passion has always been helping animals in need, and I love being an advocate for those who do not have a voice. 

I hold an M.S. in biology and work in environmental protection for my career. I share my life with my two wonderful companions, Precious and Franklin, who are both deaf. My heart has always been with the special needs dogs that are so often overlooked. Our philosophy of love me for who I am, not what I am is very important to me and I find so much fulfillment in helping our dogs find the perfect families who truly love them the way they deserve to be loved!

Paula

Hi everyone! I’m an Industrial Engineer that has worked in both the automotive and aerospace industries, but my true passion is volunteering with Angel’s Retreat. I love working with both our rescued dogs and our adopters to find the perfect match for everyone. I also enjoy using my technical skills to help manage the “business” side of Angel’s Retreat. Volunteering in rescue has given me a purpose I didn’t realize I needed. There’s nothing better than a dog’s wagging tail and a person’s smiling face!

Lynn

Hello!  I am an biomedical engineer by profession and a devoted dog rescue volunteer by passion.  As an Angel’s Retreat volunteer, I have the opportunity to provide care and love to dogs who haven’t had easy lives. Each dog has a unique story and set of challenges, and I find immense joy in seeing their transformations as they gain confidence and find loving homes. In my second role as Secretary for the Angel’s Retreat Board, I work with a team of compassionate people to make strategic decisions that help ensure a safe and healthy haven for dogs who have been neglected or abused, ensuring they get the love and medical care they deserve.  

This dual role has deepened my understanding of running a non-profit animal rescue.  The joy I’ve felt seeing a dog find their forever home, and a person finding their loving new companion, has made me a strong advocate for animal welfare. 

Linda

Hi everyone! I am an IT project manager for a global investment bank. On the side, I have worked for the ASPCA and Animal Care Centers of NYC as a dog and cat volunteer. I have fostered and adopted dogs and cats. Presently, I am sharing my apt in NY with Skippy and Minnow. Having volunteered in both of the NYC shelters and interacted with rescue orgs, I have found Angel’s Retreat to be one of the most caring and impressive rescue operations, which is why I am pleased to be part of the team. The ability for dogs to roam free in the backyard where they are sheltered, amongst compassionate staff, makes them feel like they are in a real home. One of my favorite quotes is: “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” Like other animal rescue organizations, Angel’s Retreat plays an important role in this process. Rescue work is rewarding, although I wish I could give all the dogs, in all the shelters, a home. Since I can’t, my focus tends to be on making a difference in the lives of the few I can touch, even if it is on a 20 minute walk when I can bring them joy and hopefully, renew their faith in humans. This is my main motivation for volunteering.