Inspired by Bo, her beloved dog adopted from OPAS, Joan helped launch the nonprofit in 2017 alongside a handful of passionate animal advocates. The goal was simple but ambitious: raise the private funds needed to build a new animal shelter for Ouachita Parish. As the organization grew, so did its impact, expanding into rescue efforts and a spay/neuter program that continues to improve the lives of community pets. Joan remains actively involved in leading the mission, with her rescue dog Charley never far from her side.