ACTION 4 ANIMALS HAWAII
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 619-322-7210.
Julie Mitchell, supervisor - 808-935-7844.
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, 808 895-8765 Rep, Greggor Iligan, friend, 808 586-6530 Jeanmarie Theine, friend, 808 640-3673
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, 808-494-2727 Karen Fitzgerald, president, Hawaii Carriage Driving Society 808.987.1031
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, (808)281-9895 Lucretia Worster, A4A Foster Mentor/A4A Board Member, (206)351-5702
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, 808-494-2727 Cat Killam, friend and fellow rescuer, 808-238-2913