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2025 Board of Directors Candidates

Basic board member responsibilities:
A non-profit board member is responsible for overseeing the organization's operations, making major decisions, and ensuring its financial stability

More information about board responsibilities can be found HERE.


 

Sandra Alstrand

Pahoa, HI

Employer: Kuikahi Mediation Center

Type of Business/Organization: Mediation Center


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Past memberships:
Soroptimists International; Center For Spiritual Living, East Hawaii board member, present; Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary, board member, past; Puna Men’s Chorus, board member, past.


Other Volunteer Experience:

Pinole Animal Control Volunteer coordinator; The Friendship Foundation, animal assisted therapy organization, volunteer; Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary, volunteer. Kuikahi Mediation Center volunteer mediator. Action 4Animals volunteer.


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position?
I am in alignment with the work A4A does and love working with the volunteers who are dedicated and tireless in their work to help the animals of the island, and they pretty much adhere to a no drama environment.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

The opportunity to better the lives of so many animals and their human companions. The overwhelming numbers of cats and dogs fostered and adopted out, and the commitment to help community cats.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

Working to assure that animal control better serves yhe community is a challenge; opportunity- to be an even more recognized organization for the amazing work we do, bringing in more volunteers and grants.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Public Relations, Event Planning, Strategic / Vision Planning, Marketing, Fundraising, Professional Non-Profit Experience, Animal Rescue Experience, Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

My mediation and life coaching skills might come in handy in some instances.


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

Any and all, depends on the project.
 

Who recommended you for board service?

I am a founding member.


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Rev. Beverley Strutt, minister, fellow board member and friend 
Julie Mitchell, supervisor

Barbara Cigainero

Keaau, HI

Employer: Retired

Type of Business/Organization: State Government


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Past memberships:At-Large District Director, District 4 Democratic Party; Petco Cubby Cleaner; AAUW Member, League of Women Voters Member; Action 4 Animals-Hawaii, Foster.


Other Volunteer Experience:

Feeder at Keaau Transfer Station for 5 years. Managed cat colony in Austin, TX for over 10 years. I have always maintained active memberships in feminist and Democratic organizations over the past 50 years.


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position?A4A is well organized and effective in addressing a serious crisis for humane treatment of animals on Hawaii Island.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

The success A4A has achieved in such a short period of time is remarkable. The adoption rate for cats and dogs and the commitment to training foster caretakers is exceptional.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

We must establish funding that ensures that there is safe, affordable spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout the island. There is a resistance to TNR amongst some policy makers at the county and state level that must be addressed or there will never be sufficient funding for spay/neuter. We must work with the public to get greater support for solutions that address ways to manage large groups of cats in humane settings. We need to acknowledge that Nene and cats do not reside together well and come up with solutions that do not pit one animal against another.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Reading / Understanding budgets and balance sheets, Public Policy / Advocacy, Political Experience, Event Planning, Strategic / Vision Planning, Grant Writing, Professional Non-Profit Experience, Animal Rescue Experience, Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

I managed federal grants in Texas for over 20 years for a multitude of services from employment and training to food stamps and welfare programs.


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

I enjoy working in groups but can work independently. I prefer hands on to virtual.
 

Who recommended you for board service?

I recommended myself.


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Kamil Dawson. mentor,
Rep, Greggor Iligan, friend
Jeanmarie Theine, friend

David French

Hilo, HI

Employer: I am no longer of use, o more gun to hire, put to pasture, peon emeritus

Type of Business/Organization: N/A


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

2024 Action 4 Animals Volunteer, dog guy

2022-2024 Banish Misfortune, backup music guy

2019-2024 Alaneo Zendo, Treasurer

1985-present Family, Dad


Other Volunteer Experience:

I get things done for whoever allows me to hang, 1972-present


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position? 

I am here, I'm a god guy, the dog side wants more votes, make sense, see where it goes. Loretta and I wanted to get involved, Banka was at an event, we said what the hell, so here we are.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

Nice to chalk up a win for the good guys. I like to hold puppies and don't have to clean up after them (grandparent style).


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

1. Not burning out.

2. Getting others to join to prevent no. 1

3. Hell, we might have some say in the game!

SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Public relations (tastelessly perhaps)
Public policy/advocacy (see above)
Political experience (see FBI files, tried things but never inhaled)
Animal rescue experience (learn what I need, do what I can)

Medical/vet experience
 

Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

-


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?


Who recommended you for board service?

Who do you think?
 

Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Outside of Loretta, I'd say most people don't have a clue. My dogs rely on me and they stay pretty healthy, but they'd never rat me out cause I'm their meal ticket.

John Lakatos

Volcano, HI

Employer: Retired

Type of Business/Organization: N/A


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Member Rotary Club of Volcano
Volcano Community Association (VCA)
Volcano Art Center (VAC)
Board member of VCA;
Membership and Volunteer Committee Chair (VCA)


Other Volunteer Experience:

VAC Spooky Trail VAC trail maintenance and Sculpture Garden Disabled American Veteran (DAV) driver Station 19A fire fighter Action 4 Animals (A4A) walker, transporter to/from Petco and Makeke adoption events; vet visits and occasionally agility training & animal control pick up / drop off


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position? 

My priority is animal welfare. Once I came aboard, working with A4A has risen to the top of my volunteer priority list. I respect the values and and way A4A operates.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

The energy and enthusiasm of the president and the volunteers. Mostly the dogs.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

Challenges: Maximizing the number of animals saved and getting legislation passed promoting animal welfare.
Opportunities: Building partnerships with other island, state and continental shelters; expanding on our volunteer base.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

I have 'boots on the ground' expertise that touches upon many of the above skills. I may be able to assist in budgets, accounting, event planning, fundraising, animal rescue and volunteer coordination.


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

Individually and in groups with hands on work.


Who recommended you for board service?

Lynn Morrison


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Patricia Harrell-Lakatos, spouse
Blair Norris, VCA board member

Lynn Morrison

Volcano, HI

Employer: University of Hawaii at Hilo/Anthropology Dept.

Type of Business/Organization: Professor


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Past memberships:
Action4Animals Hawaii - Co-founder 2021 -President since 2022 - initiated initial meetings, coordinated group communication and activities, helped formulate mission, developed by-laws with Carol Belt, have been providing leadership and direction, lead person on Doggie Brigade
Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary - volunteer for almost 23yrs - dog walking, social media, fly-outs including the Greater Good fly-out of Fall 2019 (collaborated with HIHS on choosing and prepping approx. 14 dogs), and the AZ Humane Society Fly-out of 2023 (approx. 20 dogs were selected, photographed, measured, and transported)
Cat Killam's Volcano Cat Sanctuary - weekly volunteer for 7 years Hawaii Island
Humane Society - intermittent volunteer for 25 yrs - dog walking in early years, cat fostering for 2.5 years of COVID- home 24 kitties we fostered
Board Member - Toronto Walk For AIDS - raised $1M 2 years in a row


Other Volunteer Experience:

I am also a biomedical researcher and have several publications on the culture of dogs in Hawaii and animal welfare and stress of shelter workers and shelter dogs. Companion dog publication:https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/paij/vol4/iss1/5/ Stress in Shelter workers and shelter dogs: https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/paij/vol6/iss1/11/


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position?This is an organization that I took a lead role in founding 7 other individuals (Elaine, Banka, Carol, Sharon, Carolyn, Sandi, and Vivian). We had all learned valuable lessons in our volunteering with other rescues. Communication, collaboration, and having similar goals was our commonality as well as an incredible dedication to saving animals.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

What I most admire about A4A members is everyone's collaborative nature and support combined with hard-work and exceptional efficiency. We are all driven to give our best to the animals in a thoughtful and understanding manner toward not only the animals but the humans involved. Being both people- and animal-oriented makes our team a huge success. Everyone on A4A excels in offering realistic goals and solutions.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

Challenges - continuing our growth on a volunteer basis. For several of us, this has become a full-time job in addition to our actual jobs. The numbers of animals saved reflects that success but we need to make sure we keep up all of our health, safety and communication mandates. Challenges - the Doggie Brigade has had exceptional success but as we take on more puppies with medical issues and more dogs in general, we need more fosters, walkers, and transporters Opportunities - there are a lot of people willing to help. We need the time to coordinate that help!! Opportunities - given our solid track record of 3 years of consistent growth, we are well-positioned to obtain solid grants.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Public Relations, Reading / Understanding budgets and balance sheets, Public Policy / Advocacy, Event Planning, Strategic / Vision Planning, Social Media, Marketing, Communications, Fundraising, Grant Writing, Animal Rescue Experience, Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

I am highly collaborative and conciliatory which are positive traits to have when leading a large group with a focus on a minimum of 2 species (cats and dogs). I have a solid reputation in the animal rescue world of the Big Island which makes working with other on-island and off-island agencies, such as Animal Control, HIHS, AIR, Ann Goody, West Coast and Canadian rescues, productive.


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

I work well in groups and hope that the last 3 years of leadership provides evidence to that effect. I also work well on my own but usually have a dog or cat with me for inspiration!!!
 

Who recommended you for board service?

Self-nomination


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Cat Killam
Kamil Dawson

Elaine Partlow

Pahoa, HI

Employer: Self Employed

Type of Business/Organization: Real Estate Investor


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Past memberships:
Llama Association of North America: board member/ vice president Hui Pono Holoholona: board member/secretary Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary: board member/foster program chair Hawaii Carriage Driving Society: board mamber/vice president A4A: board member/vice president


Other Volunteer Experience:

Civil Air Patrol


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position?
Animals are my passion. A4A has the right attitude and wonderful people.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

Working together to rescue and rehome cats and dogs—in large numbers!


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

Challenge is finding enough volunteers and mentors to do the work without getting burned out. Opportunities include educating the public; and making the state and county officials aware of the huge animal overpopulation crisis, the solutions to deal with it, and the need for their support.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Event Planning, Strategic / Vision Planning, Animal Rescue Experience, Medical / Vet Experience, Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

I can teach workshops on Bottle Baby Care and Fostering 101


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

Hands on, small groups.
 

Who recommended you for board service?

As a founder, I volunteered to be on the board.


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Kamil Dawson, fellow rescuer
Karen Fitzgerald, president, Hawaii Carriage Driving Society

Jessi Williams

Keaau, HI

Employer: Student

Type of Business/Organization: Academic


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Past memberships:Current:
2 years volunteer as foster and foster mentor for A4A Current other: clinical rotations within Department of Education as a Doctor of Occupational Therapy


Other Volunteer Experience:

St Joseph Hospital in Tacoma Washington (2016 - 2017): 1 year volunteer as patient transporter


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position?
I am deeply drawn to the mission of Action 4 Animals Hawaii because of the unique combination of advocacy, education, and hands-on support that your organization provides to improve the lives of animals in our community. Hawaii’s diverse and delicate ecosystem, along with its unique cultural relationship to animals, presents both challenges and opportunities that I feel passionately about addressing. Your organization stands out because of its commitment to grassroots efforts, community involvement, and cultural sensitivity. I appreciate how Action 4 Animals Hawaii prioritizes not only the welfare of animals but also educating and empowering people to create sustainable, compassionate change. This holistic approach resonates with me, as I firmly believe that meaningful change happens when we engage and uplift the community as part of the solution. I am motivated to join the board because I want to contribute my skills and energy to an organization that aligns with my values. I’ve seen firsthand the impact that compassionate advocacy can have, and I’m inspired by the tangible difference Action 4 Animals Hawaii has already made. Being a leading ambassador for your mission would allow me to channel my passion for animal welfare, leadership experience, and love for Hawaii into meaningful action. Ultimately, I raised my hand for this role because I believe in the transformative power of your work and would be honored to help drive your vision forward.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

What excites me most about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii is the transformative impact you’re creating for both animals and the broader community. The dedication to protecting vulnerable animals, advocating for responsible care, and fostering meaningful connections between people and animals is truly inspiring. I’m particularly drawn to the emphasis on education and advocacy—empowering individuals and communities to make lasting changes for the betterment of animal welfare. The way you balance immediate, hands-on support for animals in need with long-term solutions to systemic issues is a powerful approach that creates sustainable impact. Another exciting aspect is your work in a place as unique as Hawaii. The islands present specific challenges, such as invasive species, stray populations, and limited resources for animal care, but also offer incredible opportunities for innovative solutions. Your culturally attuned and community-driven efforts address these challenges in a way that is both compassionate and effective. What truly excites me is the chance to be part of an organization that doesn’t just react to issues but proactively builds a better future for animals and people alike. The passion behind your work is contagious, and it motivates me to want to contribute to this important mission in any way I can.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

Challenges Sustainable Funding and Resource Allocation: As with many nonprofits, maintaining a steady flow of funding to support programs and operations is an ongoing challenge. In Hawaii, the higher cost of living and limited local resources can make it even more difficult to secure consistent financial support and attract long-term donors. Ensuring that resources are available to meet the growing needs of animal welfare initiatives while managing administrative and operational costs will be a key hurdle. Community Engagement and Education: Bridging the gap between awareness and action in the local community can be a challenge, especially in areas where cultural practices or economic hardships may conflict with modern animal welfare standards. Educating diverse groups and fostering meaningful change without alienating or disrespecting local traditions requires a careful, culturally sensitive approach. Opportunities Expanding Community Partnerships: Building stronger relationships with schools, local businesses, and other nonprofits can amplify the organization’s impact. Collaborative efforts could include educational workshops, co-hosted events, or shared resources to tackle animal welfare issues more comprehensively. Engaging a broader network also provides opportunities for shared funding and support. Innovative Use of Technology: Leveraging digital tools and platforms for outreach, education, and fundraising is a significant opportunity. Initiatives such as virtual educational campaigns, crowdfunding, and interactive social media engagement can help raise awareness and attract new supporters, both locally and globally. Technology can also assist with tracking and managing animal populations, volunteer coordination, and promoting adoptable animals.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Public Relations, Public Policy / Advocacy, Political Experience, Legal Expertise, Event Planning, Social Media, Marketing, Communications, Fundraising, Animal Rescue Experience, Medical / Vet Experience, Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

I am a people person and believe in the value of community and connection. I believe in facilitating trust and meaningful connections within the community and plan to bring my passion for community partnerships and stakeholders to the organization.


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

I believe in group work especially as it relates to a common goal and developing strategies and plans of action. I am both a hands on and work well virtually on projects.
 

Who recommended you for board service?

Elaine Partlow


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Elaine Partlow, A4A Foster Mentor/A4A Board Member,
Lucretia Worster, A4A Foster Mentor/A4A Board Member

Lucretia Worster

Volcano, HI

Employer: Volcano Vacation Home Services, LLC

Type of Business/Organization: Vacation Rental Property Management


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Past memberships:Current:
Experience Volcano 2018-2021, Secretary
Action 4 Animals Hawaii 2022-present, Secretary and Treasurer


Other Volunteer Experience:

Volcano Rotary 2015-2020, volunteer
Was very involved in the 2018 Short Term Vacation Rental legislation
Have volunteered at Petfix multiple times


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position? 
I like that Action 4 Animals Hawaii has a transparent, community-focused approach in animal rescue which make such a huge difference, especially when working with other groups to amplify impact. It is also very inspiring the growth and success we have already achieved.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

I’m excited to see how Action 4 Animals Hawaii has expanded, both in successful adoptions and in strengthening its community presence. While there’s still a lot of work to be done, every step forward makes a difference.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

One of our biggest challenges as we grow our cat fostering program is expanding without losing touch with our foster parents. Mentorship is work, and finding potential mentors to help us grow is one of our greatest challenges. It's an unpaid position that takes a lot of time and emotional energy. We have to make sure no foster parents or foster animals get lost. I see great opportunities. I am especially excited about the Best Friends conference in February and the connections and learning that come from that experience. Our collaborations with other rescues, such as Aloha Illio's event in March, and grant opportunities through the county and other sources. Now that we have better statistics via ShelterLuv so many more doors are opened for funding and support of our foster parents.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Reading / Understanding budgets and balance sheets, Accounting, Strategic / Vision Planning, Social Media, Communications, Animal Rescue Experience


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

Generally working with people and getting them excited about what we are accomplishing together. I spend a lot of time trying to make sure our fosters are included, supported, and feel they are part of the whole. This is similar to what I did in my previous job at Alaska Airlines, teaching flight attendants how to use new technology.


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

I prefer to work individually on tasks, but work with a group to decide what those tasks should be.
 

Who recommended you for board service?

Previous board member


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Kamil Dawson, Animal Control
Cat Killam, friend and fellow rescuer

Gerty Wraith

Bend, OR

Employer: St. Charles Hospital

Type of Business/Organization: Medical Provider


VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

Action 4 Animals Volunteer


Other Volunteer Experience:

-


WHY are you interested in the Action 4 Animals Hawaii Board position? 

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for a position on the Action 4 Animals Hawaii board. Over the past year, volunteering with this incredible organization has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. I have witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication to saving at-risk animals and creating lasting solutions for the welfare of our community's pets.

My passion for this role stems from my commitment to furthering Action 4 Animals’ mission. I believe my experience and interests align with two key areas of need:

  1. Website Updates: A user-friendly and regularly updated website is critical for driving engagement, promoting adoptions, and showcasing success stories. I am eager to contribute to ensuring our online presence reflects the urgency and importance of our mission, making it easier for people to connect with our work.

  2. Networking with Other Rescues: Collaboration is essential for addressing the overpopulation crisis. By strengthening ties with mainland rescues and organizing transport for at-risk shelter dogs, we can provide them with a second chance at life in areas where they are more likely to be adopted. I am passionate about building these relationships and facilitating successful transitions for our animals.
     

Action 4 Animals’ unique combination of grassroots activism, volunteer-driven programs, and genuine compassion for animals sets it apart from other organizations. I am deeply inspired by our collective impact and would be honored to play a greater role in helping to achieve even greater success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can best serve Action 4 Animals Hawaii as a board member.


OUR WORK What excites you about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii?

What excites me most about the work of Action 4 Animals Hawaii is the opportunity to be a voice for discarded animals and to save lives one at a time. Every effort—whether it’s rehoming an at-risk dog, transporting animals to rescues on the mainland, or simply providing care and comfort—makes a profound difference. The organization’s dedication to compassionate solutions inspires me to contribute even more toward giving these animals the second chances they deserve.


What do you see as 1-2 challenges and 1-2 opportunities for Action 4 Animals Hawaii in the next few years?

One challenge I foresee for Action 4 Animals Hawaii is managing growth as the organization continues to expand its reach and impact. With growth comes the risk of things falling through the cracks, such as communication or coordination efforts. However, this also presents an incredible opportunity to strengthen internal systems and processes, ensuring that every animal and volunteer receives the attention and support they need.

Another challenge is leveraging the vast potential of online marketing to connect with diverse demographics both on and off the island. By fully utilizing social media platforms, website updates, and online fundraising tools, Action 4 Animals can expand its audience, raise more funds, and ultimately save more lives. These challenges, when approached strategically, can serve as opportunities to amplify the organization’s mission and create an even greater impact for animals in need.


SKILLS/EXPERTISE:

Event Planning, Social Media, Marketing, Fundraising, Animal Rescue Experience, Volunteer Coordination


Add any other skills or expertise that would be important for our particular organization.

-


Describe your work style. Do you prefer to work in groups? Individually? Are you hands on or prefer virtual projects?

My work style is adaptable and focused. While I prefer working individually and take pride in managing tasks independently, I also thrive in group settings and value collaboration when it’s needed to achieve a shared goal. Living in Oregon, I am well-suited to virtual projects and have experience staying organized, communicative, and productive in a remote capacity. I am committed to contributing effectively, whether working solo or as part of a team.


Who recommended you for board service?

Lucretia Worster and Lynn Morrison


Please identify at least two references we can speak with.

Kaitlin Carroll Co-worker Kaiser Permanente 

Cindy Hernandez Co-worker Kaiser Permanente 

Action 4 Animals Hawaii is a 501c(3).

EIN 88-3038470 • P.O. Box 873, Volcano, HI 96785

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