With a mixture of both great pride for all that we have accomplished and a twinge of sadness, I am writing to share my plans to depart the APF on December 31, 2020 after 6+ years of service. It has been an honor to lead this amazing team of dedicated volunteers and professionals, while serving the pets and people of our community. 

It has been a privilege to work side by side with an incredibly talented, committed leadership team along with dedicated staff members who consistently achieve a 90%+ live release rate. Our amazing volunteers are right there beside us, enabling us to provide exceptional care to every pet that enters our doors. Our facility has been upgraded, including the incredible Delack Feline Care Center that gives cats room to play and climb. We have proven our ability to manage our finances well, raise major gifts, host highly successful benefit events, and secure large government grants. All of this bodes well for our future plans as outlined in the exciting 2020-25 APF strategic plan, a plan that will further enhance the care and services we provide to pets and their parents in our community. Last but not least, the APF is managed by a strong board of directors and recognized in the Northeast as a progressive and highly effective animal welfare organization. 

I remain invested in the APF and am committed to a smooth leadership transition. The Board of Directors has assembled a search committee to find my successor. The committee seeks to find a leader who will continue to enhance the organization’s results and reputation while also garnering the resources needed to support our vital work in and for the community. 

As I prepare to leave the APF, I do so with great pride in what we have been able to accomplish and know that the organization is in good hands, poised for future growth and increased community impact. 

With gratitude,

Deb Balliet

Executive Director