Name: Donna Jackson
Title: Founder, CEO, and Chairman of the Board
Donna has 30 years of experience in the technology sector of the hospitality industry. Her various leadership and management roles have included call center operations, client service management, technical support, software development, quality assurance, and professional services project management.
Why did you start Rio Verde Animal Rescue?
I have been involved with animals as long as I can remember in one way or another. Helping animals in need has always been a passion. Building the rescue originated with me trying to help my Dad and grew into a lifelong dream of creating my own animal rescue.
What got me started was LOVE… Love for my Dad, love for the animals, and a love for the people who have helped me move it forward.
If there is one thing that people could take away about Rio Verde, what would it be?
Rio Verde is a team of individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of animals who need assistance. The organization provides animals with an opportunity which might not have existed in the absence of a rescue. Our goal is to inspire people to make a difference in the lives of animals using adoption, education, interaction, donations, and volunteer commitment.
What would you like to see Rio Verde become in the next 3-5 years?
Initially, Rio Verde needs to become a self sustaining organization that would include a reserve fund which would support emergency veterinarian services. Building a solid recurring donor base as well as corporate sponsorship to allow the organization to participate in local animal related events is key to our future.
As we are just starting out, our overall goal is growth. Growth in funding which would allow expansion and a facility that could accommodate 10 or more horses. All of this while remaining true to the original focus which is to provide the best possible care to each and every animal we receive.
Do you have any other non-profit experience/involvement?
Yes, I do have non-profit experience as both a volunteer and a foster parent. My management and procedural documentation experience have also greatly benefited me in my current non profit role.
