Our volunteers have a strong commitment to serving the many clients served by our organization. But first and foremost, they focus their energies on those who take advantage of our programs and services.

Our board represents a cross-section of our community and has a passion for our organization and those we serve. The members work hard to ensure long-term sustainability of the organization and oversee that the funds raised directly affect those in need.

Board Member Bios

Mary Douglas is the President and a founding member of the Lincoln Animal Ambassadors, which was established in 2008. She has been involved in animal rescue for 20 years. As a result, Mary realized that spay and neuter was one of the key components in alleviating animal homelessness and, along with a handful of like-minded volunteers, created LAA. Originally from Scribner, Nebraska, Mary has worked in the legal field in Lincoln for 41 years and also has a thriving home business. She lives in Lincoln with her husband, Randy, of 39 years and currently has 1 fur-kid... a 12 yr old Dachshund/Boston Terrier mix.

Pauline Balta is a founding member and coordinator for the low cost spay/neuter program.

When not issuing spay/neuter vouchers for LAA's clients and not fulfilling other board member duties, Pauline does pre-adoption home visits for several animal rescue groups. A couple Saturdays per month are spent volunteering at a large no-kill shelter in Southeastern Nebraska.

The furry nuggets, all rescued, allowing Pauline to live with them include kitties: Jasper, a 17-year-old calico; Marmalade, a young orange female; and dogs, Vincent, a 12-year-old Terrier blend; and Tico, a 12-year-old Chihuahua blend. Visits from grand dogs Charlie, Martin, Scrappy and Ralphie--all rescued--make the phrase "the-more-the-merrier" come true.

Blake Gilmore serves as the Treasurer and Marketing Director. Blake is responsible for making sure the bills get paid, developing our social media presence and leading the marketing committee. When he isn't updating our Facebook page, Blake is busy taking care of 2 dogs: Onyx, a very vocal Siberian Husky and a Pomeranian/Dachshund mix named Scrappy.

Donna Kavanagh Donna Kavanagh serves as the Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator on our board. Donna's household includes one canine furkid Willow, a Staffy/Lab mix, and several feline furkids. She has 3 granddogs, 2 grandcats, and her daughter-in-law is a police K-9 handler. Donna's human family includes 2 adult kids and their spouses and one grandson. She has been an LAA volunteer for over 9 years.

Mary Yager servers as the grants coordinator.

Jane Nelson, co-chairs the Fundraising & Events Committee.

Amy Nelson, co-chairs the Fundraising & Events Committee