About Us

Who We Are
Operation Paws for Homes (OPH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, foster-based animal rescue dedicated to giving dogs and cats a second chance at life. Every animal we rescue deserves safety, compassion, and the opportunity to find a loving forever home.
We primarily rescue dogs and cats from overcrowded shelters throughout the southern United States, including South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, and Virginia. We also work with local shelters and, on a limited basis, partner with trusted international rescues to help animals escaping dangerous and inhumane conditions.
Since our founding, OPH has been powered by volunteers who believe every life is worth saving. Together, we have helped thousands of homeless animals find the families they deserve.
Why We Rescue
Many of the shelters we partner with face overwhelming challenges. Limited resources, overcrowding, low local adoption rates, and a lack of access to affordable spay and neuter services often leave shelter staff with heartbreaking decisions. Despite their tireless efforts, healthy, adoptable animals can run out of time simply because there isn't enough space or support.
When our founders witnessed these realities firsthand, they knew they had to help. Operation Paws for Homes was created to give these animals another chance while also supporting the shelters that care for them.
Our partnerships extend far beyond transporting animals to safety. We work closely with our shelter partners by providing guidance, supplies, donations, and ongoing support to help strengthen animal welfare in the communities we serve. Every transport not only changes the lives of the dogs and cats on board, but also gives hope to the dedicated shelter staff who fight for them every day.


How We're Funded
The lifesaving work we do is made possible through the generosity of individual donors, adoption fees, a limited number grants, and fundraising events.
Every donation helps provide veterinary care, transportation, food, supplies, medications, and other critical resources for the animals in our care. It also allows us to continue supporting our shelter partners and expanding our impact.
Together, we are creating brighter futures for homeless dogs and cats, one rescue at a time.
Together We Rescue.
Our Team
Operation Paws for Homes is powered by an incredible community of volunteers, supported by our small, dedicated staff and Board of Directors. From transporting animals and fostering pets to processing applications, organizing events, fundraising, providing medical support, and educating the community, our volunteers are the driving force behind our lifesaving work. Together, our volunteers, staff, and board work toward one shared mission: helping dogs and cats in need find safe, loving homes.
Board Members

Jen Dodge
Founder/Board of Directors

Laurie Landers
Founder/Board of Directors

Sonja Gladwin
Board of Directors
Staff Members

Rebecca Goodhart
Executive Director

Tracy McMenamy
Medical Liaison

Margaret Kapinos
Supply Coordinator

Robin Jenks
Program Manager
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Gina Owenby
Medical Admin

Amanda Martin
Supply Liaison
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Liz Grimsley
Program Coordinator

Kathi Maki
Accounting Manager
Staff Members
Regional Foster Coordinators

Anne Ninowski
RFC - Richmond

Noelle Johnson
RFC - West Maryland

Merry D’Ambrisi
RFC - Northern Virginia

Katie Chalpin
RFC - East Maryland

Kelsi Hummel
RFC - Pennsylvania
