The Houston BARC Foundation, the charitable arm of the city’s animal shelter, revealed on November 11 that Brittany Amend will serve as its first executive director. Founded in 2010, the nonprofit bridges the gap between public funding and the needs of shelter animals, caring for more than 22,000 animals and responding to over 32,000 service calls in 2025.
Amend’s background and vision
Amend arrives with almost twenty years of experience in fundraising, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement. She previously directed development at the Small Steps Nurturing Center and advised a range of Houston‑area organizations focused on education, youth development, and social impact. In her new role, she will oversee all fundraising, donor relations, and partnership initiatives for the BARC Foundation.
“Every animal that comes through BARC’s doors deserves the best possible chance for a positive outcome,” Amend said in a statement. “BARC serves animals regardless of their circumstances, and the Foundation exists to rally the people, partnerships and resources that help make even more possible. I’m excited to build greater awareness, deepen community support and help more Houston animals receive the care and opportunities they deserve.”
Board expansion and upcoming projects
Houston City Council also approved and appointed a new board of directors for the foundation. The board, which includes community leaders such as Barbara A. Carroll, Malissa Cutaia, Dr. Julie A. Gonzalez, Genevieve Marie Graham, Tracey Shappro, Virginia Parras, Emily Smikal, Hoang Quan Vu, Dr. Rick Q. Ngo, and Kamisha M. Mickey, will work closely with Amend to provide strategic leadership, strengthen organizational capacity, and advance a shared long‑term vision.
Officials are preparing to break ground this fall on the City of Houston’s Animal Adoption Center at Buffalo Bayou Park. The foundation plans to leverage its new leadership to support both current and future programs, enhancing the city’s animal‑welfare infrastructure and creating additional pathways for fostering, rescue, and adoption.
Impact on the community
The appointment signals a continued commitment to animal welfare in Houston, a city where shelter demand remains high. By focusing on donor engagement and community partnerships, the BARC Foundation aims to expand resources for shelter animals, increase public awareness, and foster a culture of compassion throughout Greater Houston.
Local residents and animal‑rights advocates have welcomed the news, noting that strong nonprofit leadership is essential for sustaining and growing the services that protect vulnerable animals. As the foundation moves forward, its efforts are expected to complement municipal initiatives and reinforce Houston’s reputation as a city that cares for its four‑legged citizens.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
