BOARD DIRECTORS

Founder and President

PJ Vasconcellos
with Ziva & Kuyani

With over 30 years of animal experience, 15 plus which have been spent in dog rescue operations, my lifelong dream of building a rescue organization has finally become a reality. An organization that respects the time and efforts of all volunteers, and most importantly never loses sight of the number one reason we were formed – to save dogs, and place them in loving forever homes.

Secretary

Raissa Gale & Sully

I am so honored and excited to join such a great group in support of German Shepherds and finding their humans! Having recently become the proud owner (and student/learner) of the most amazing shepherd, I am excited to be a part of the leadership team and support such a worthy cause. "You can't buy love, but you can rescue it!"

Treasurer

Sidney Bruce & Mojo

I am very excited to join Redwood Coast German Shepherd Rescue as the corporate treasurer. I became involved with the rescue world two years ago after adopting my current dog, Mojo. I bring multi-industry experience in financial analysis, accounting practices, cost controls, general business administration to the organization, as well as having run my own accounting business for over 30 years.

Dog Operations & Adoptions

PJ Vasconcellos

Founder and President

Ziva & her two brothers, Tyler and Dagen, who have since crossed the Rainbow Bridge

I am ecstatic to be able to embrace not only my passion for saving German Shepherds, but for bringing together a Team that shares that passion. Together we can accomplish life-saving miracles.

Carissa Fernandez

I am excited for this opportunity to join the new Rescue Team, as I am extremely passionate about animal rescue and have two dogs at home that I love more than anything.

Rescue Consultants

Animal Shelter Consultant

Joanie Bruno-Compagno

I started my career as a Veterinarian Technician over 25 years ago, but soon knew my calling and passion was in animal welfare. After serving for five years as the Animal Care Supervisor for a local SPCA, I accepted the position of Lead Animal Care Technician for another local County Animal Services facility. To date, I have performed countless dog behavior evaluations and continue my dedication in finding forever homes through adoption or in coordination with rescue groups. Through the years, my husband and I have shared love and devotion for our companion animals.

IT Consultant

Andrea Horvath

Design and helping people is my passion. I am originally from Orange County, California. While California is known for its fantastic weather, I am happy to now be living in Buckeye, Arizona, where there is less traffic, great weather, and peaceful surroundings. I am a self-taught designer/developer. I did attend school and received on-site training from years of experience when working in-office. There is nothing better than giving customers the perfect design they are after. I love a variety of design and development and love to push the boundaries. I am incredibly customer-focused and can provide a single plan for a massive design campaign. I currently work with Redwood Coast German Shepherd Rescue as their online tech expert, having designed their website, and assist with anything website functionality related. I fully support their rescue efforts and am honored to work with the organization as their IT Consultant.

Facebook & Grant Writing Consultant

Carissa Fernandez

I achieved my Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management in 2012, and have worked and volunteered for various nonprofits in the past. I currently specialize in fundraising, grant writing, social media, and development.