Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Bank.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Growing up in Brooklyn, NY, I always loved animals. But as a kid, I didn’t know what kinds of careers with animals existed. It wasn’t until I was in college studying business that I discovered the world of animal welfare. One day, I had a chance encounter with a mobile pet adoption unit on the streets of Manhattan. The shelter employee was quite gruff with me when I expressed how sad I felt that there were so many homeless animals. He shoved a volunteer application in my hand and told me to do something about it then. Thirty years later, I have dedicated my life to bettering the lives of homeless and owned animals in this country. I’ve worked at shelters across the US, strengthening the human animal bond and developing programs to keep pets out of shelters and in homes. In August of 2016, I moved to the Los Angeles area to lead the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA, where I serve as President & CEO. I am incredibly grateful to work at an organization that has so many programs and services to help animals and people.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Animal welfare is an emotionally-charged environment and people are very passionate about pets. I see steady improvement in the lives of animals in this country. Shelters nationwide have implemented innovative lifesaving programs that have dramatically reduced euthanasia. Increasing adoptions, creating foster programs, offering low-cost services to pet owners, and humane education for children are just some of the major growth areas. However, there are many obstacles ahead. Access to low-cost veterinary care and affordable pet-friendly housing are two of the major challenges we face in our community.
Please tell us about Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA.
The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA is a donor-supported, nonprofit organization that provides animal care and services for homeless and owned animals in the Greater Los Angeles Area. The organization is dedicated to promoting humane treatment and compassion and care for all animals. The animals in its care come from 11 animal control contract cities, as well as partner shelters across the Los Angeles area and beyond. The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA also offers lifesaving programs and services to the community that support the human-animal bond and keep pets in homes.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite thing about Los Angeles is the diversity. I love visiting different neighborhoods and meeting people from all background. There is also so much to do! LA is full of cultural activities, fun things for kids and surrounded by nature.
The Greater Los Angeles Area is very progressive when it comes to animal welfare. There are many animal organizations, including the Pasadena Humane Society, that are doing great work in the community. However, we have a lot of homelessness in the area, both animal and human. This is one area that we still have a lot of work to do. And like most LA residents, I could do without the traffic!
Contact Info:
- Address: 361 South Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105
- Website: pasadenahumane.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pasadenahumane/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pasadenahumane
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/PasadenaHumane
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/user/pasadenahumane
Image Credit:
Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA
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