Kara Starzyk of Abandoned Pet Rescue On 5 Things You Need To Know To Successfully Lead A Nonprofit Organization
“Attitude is everything.” — My father Stan Starzyk
When days feel exhausting or emotionally draining, I take a break to give belly rubs to a shelter dog in its kennel or scratch the ears of a purring cat. I remind myself that helping animals in need is my dream job. Keeping a positive attitude helps me to do my best to fulfill the organization’s mission to save lives.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kara Starzyk.
Kara Starzyk is the shelter manager at Abandoned Pet Rescue (APR), the only no-kill animal shelter in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Kara first got involved with APR as a volunteer and foster in 2015 and witnessed the compassionate nature of APR towards animals and volunteers first-hand. She then began volunteering more until 2019, when she joined the organization full-time as her new career.
Thank you so much for doing this with us. Before we begin our readers would like to get to know you a bit more. Can you tell us a bit about your “backstory”?
Growing up in South Florida, I have many childhood memories of stray cats and dogs finding their way to my family’s home. I was raised to believe that it is people’s responsibility to help injured wildlife, feed community cats, and rescue stray dogs from the street. My parents drove me to volunteer at a local animal shelter for school service hours, and from that point on, I stayed informed and active in animal welfare. Becoming a photojournalist and event photographer allowed me to photograph many nonprofit organizations in South Florida. I admired the dedication of the people involved. I observed how hard the staff and volunteers of nonprofit organizations work to help others, as well as the tireless efforts made to market and fundraise to continue their mission.
Can you tell us the story behind why you decided to start or join your non nonprofit?
While fostering a senior dog through Abandoned Pet Rescue, I experienced the compassion and commitment that the organization shows to people and pets, which inspired me to become more involved. During the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to make a career change from photography to helping animals full-time. I now contribute to APR in many areas, from cleaning cages to fundraising to managing shelter operations.
Can you describe how you or your organization aims to make a significant social impact?
APR rescues 350 cats and dogs each year that have been abandoned or surrendered by their families and provides pets with shelter, nutritious meals, veterinary care, and enrichment until they are adopted. APR also strives to provide resources to help families keep their pets by offering food, supplies and veterinary care when possible. The cost of living in South Florida and the lack of affordable veterinary care are forcing pet owners to make the decision to give up their pets. Knowing their pet is safe at a no-kill shelter provides the family relief during a difficult time. Every pet that comes through APR is spayed/neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated, positively impacting pet overpopulation and public safety.
Without saying any names, can you share a story about an individual who was helped by your idea so far?
APR has been saving lives for 28 years. There has been a recent increase in pets being surrendered because their owner is experiencing homelessness. A senior dog named Izzy was surrendered when her owner began living out of his car and could no longer care for her. Izzy’s dad was grateful that she could be cared for by APR and find a new, loving home to spend her golden years.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
First, pet overpopulation is at critical numbers, and every shelter in Florida is over-capacity. With legislation to enforce the spaying and neutering of cats and dogs, the issue of overpopulation will improve. Second, pet adoption is a choice to save a life. There are pets of every breed, size, and age in shelters, so anyone wanting to add a pet to their home can be a part of the solution. Third, the lack of affordable veterinary care and the exorbitant pet fees attached to rental housing are other issues that the community needs to work together to find solutions to help keep pets in homes.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
APR operates with a small team of staff plus many active volunteers, so letting everyone know how important and valued their roles are is an essential part of leading the organization. Animal rescue can take an emotional toll on those involved who witness animal abuse, neglect, and abandonment, so it is essential to focus on the uplifting adoptions and positive transformations of pets in order to stay passionate about the work we do. Upholding our values of being a compassionate, no-kill animal shelter also leads to well-rounded employees plus attracts new supporters and volunteers that help strengthen the organization. Finally, promoting animal welfare in our community through more than 100 community events a year and collaborating with other rescue organizations are crucial to leadership because tackling pet abandonment requires community-wide efforts.
Based on your experience, what are the “5 Things A Person Should Know Before They Decide To Start A Non Profit”. Please share a story or example for each.
1. Have a clearly defined mission and goals.
2. Have a strong Board of Directors that will raise money and support the organization’s staff.
3. Make sure the cause appeals to enough donors.
4. A network of volunteers is critical.
5. Do whatever it takes to get the job done.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your non profit? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)
Erin Stanton, creator of Susie’s Senior Dogs (SSD), which began as a social media account to promote senior dog adoption and grew to a cultural movement inspiring thousands of people, including me, to adopt senior pets. SSD is a non-profit organization that also raises money to provide medical care for senior pets in sheltersIt has helped several dogs at Abandoned Pet Rescue find their forever homes.
Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson” Quote? How is that relevant to you in your life?
“Attitude is everything.” — My father Stan Starzyk
When days feel exhausting or emotionally draining, I take a break to give belly rubs to a shelter dog in its kennel or scratch the ears of a purring cat. I remind myself that helping animals in need is my dream job. Keeping a positive attitude helps me to do my best to fulfill the organization’s mission to save lives.
How can our readers follow you online?
Abandoned Pet Rescue website: https://abandonedpetrescue.org/
Abandoned Pet Rescue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abandonedpetrescue/
Abandoned Pet Rescue X: https://x.com/abandonedpetres
Abandoned Pet Rescue Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbandonedPetRescue/
Abandoned Pet Rescue LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abandoned-pet-rescue/posts/?feedView=all
Kara Starzyk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-starzyk-2a707057/
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success in your mission.
