Meet Our leadership Team
Jen ClarksonExecutive Director, Co-Founder
Jen, a lifelong animal lover, began her journey in animal welfare in 2011, volunteering with a local rescue before co-founding Dog Aide in Detroit. As Executive Director, she manages day-to-day operations and develops programs like Project Grace (free spay/neuter) and Tyson’s Heart (heartworm prevention). Her background in healthcare drives her focus on addressing medical needs for pets in the Detroit community. Jen also advocates for shelter reform and consults nationally on developing community outreach programs.
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beth pruittDirector of Finance, Co-Founder
As a founding member of Dog Aide, Beth has combined her two passions: dogs and the city of Detroit. After decades in animal welfare, she recognized that outreach was key to addressing the city's pet overpopulation. While her role at Dog Aide has evolved over the years, she currently serves as the Director of Finance.
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angela span mikulaDirector of Outreach
Angela has been with Dog Aide since 2014, serving in various roles throughout her time with the organization. Currently, she holds the position of Director of Outreach, where she is dedicated to improving the lives of owned dogs that live inside the home and fostering relationships with their guardians. She also contributes to the outdoor dog program, the medical team, event planning, and supports both volunteer and client relations. With a deep passion for animal welfare and humanitarian work, Angela is committed to helping the underdog, making a difference wherever possible, and giving back to the community.
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Rachel BenoDirector of Operations
Rachel has been with Dog Aide since 2015 as the Director of Operations, where she manages both the organization’s operations and field activities. As a Detroit resident for over a decade, Rachel is dedicated to improving the lives of the city's residents and their pets, leading initiatives like the LODGE Project and Operation Freedom. Her work reflects her passion for animal welfare and her commitment to creating a better life for pets in need.
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Kari MartinDirector of Marketing
Kari joined Dog Aide in 2015 and became Director of Marketing and Animal Placement in 2019, playing a key role in transforming the lives of pets and their families. Her passion for animals has led to innovative marketing strategies and significant strides in pet placement, especially when keeping pets with their owners isn't possible. Kari’s dedication has made her a driving force in ensuring surrendered pets are safe with one of Dog Aide’s transfer partners.
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Amy HughesDirector of Sterilization
Amy joined Dog Aide in 2021 and took on the role of Director of Sterilization in 2022. With a strong passion for the benefits of spaying and neutering, she is dedicated to addressing Detroit's dog overpopulation crisis. Since joining the team, Amy has expanded the spay/neuter capacity of the program and introduced a TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) initiative to help manage the community cat population. Her efforts have had a lasting impact on both the pets and people of Detroit, contributing to healthier animals and a more sustainable solution to overpopulation.
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Lauren Springall
Director of Client Communication
Lauren has been with Dog Aide since 2021 and currently serves as the Director of Client and Volunteer Communications. In this role, she oversees the Dog Aide Hotline, manages weekly and monthly outreach for the indoor dog program, and handles communications with clients across all programs. Additionally, Lauren supports new volunteer onboarding and relations, contributes to the outdoor outreach program, and takes on various other responsibilities. She is passionate about fostering connections within the community, valuing both the people and the dogs, and providing support wherever needed.