After nearly two years of searching, the Lloydminster and District SPCA has found a new executive director.
Danika Bodnarchuk took on the role officially on September 4th. She has spent several years in the animal welfare sector and previously worked at the Edmonton Humane Society in various roles from Animal Protection Peace Officer to program coordination.
“I feel really fortunate in this role and joining such a phenomenal team of people who are so passionate about the animals and the care. Already in my short time in Lloydminster the community’s been so welcoming and it seems like a really great place to live and I’m looking forward to planting my roots here.”
The role has been vacant since Jon Punshon left in 2018 and other board members have been sharing in the responsibilities of the position. Bodnarchuk will be overseeing management of the shelter and fundraising efforts. She says the pandemic has caused problems for non-profits fundraising throughout the country, but they will try and get one in before the end of 2020.
“We’re going to have to get a little more creative with that, but I’m looking forward to finishing up the year and starting 2021 with a fresh slate.”
Community Outreach Manager Becca Lawrence says they are hoping to hold the annual Jail and Bail and are looking into fit it within the public health guidelines.
Lawrence says there has also been interest in people joining their Board of Directors. So far, they’ve had one application and several inquiries.