Leadership Staff

Michele Soto oversees The Arizona Pet Project’s spay and neuter program and is responsible for community engagement, event planning, and volunteer coordination, along with day-to-day operations for our organization.

“Working directly with people and pets is my passion. To assist with people who are trying their hardest to solve pet homelessness is not only rewarding, but an honor.”

Michele was in animal welfare for over a decade with both the Arizona Humane Society and AAWL, before transitioning to human services with the Sojourner Center. She returned to her original passion by taking on the role of Administrative Coordinator for The Arizona Pet Project in 2014. In addition, Michele serves as the Training Supervisor for our local RAINN Victim Service Management Team and Safe Helpline staff. In her spare time, Michele enjoys reading and spending time with her family and pets, including her three cats (Henry, Edgar, Tyrion), and dog (Walt).

Catharine develops and designs all marketing and communication campaigns and materials for The Arizona Pet Project. She writes the copy shared across our email and direct mail campaigns, social media channels, fundraising marketing materials, and our program success stories. Catharine is responsible for managing our customer relationship management software, website, and accounts receivable.

“Sharing stories is a passion of mine, and my goal is to share the story of how The Arizona Pet Project serves our community by supporting families and saving pets.”

Before joining the team, Catharine spent 10 years working as a professional blogger and digital marketing specialist. She is a graduate of Arizona State University, and she lives in Phoenix with her husband and their dog (Bowie).

Sarah coordinates and promotes the fundraising events that benefit The Arizona Pet Project that lift up our community as we work together to prevent pet homelessness and support people in need.

“I have seen firsthand the profound impact that keeping people and their pets together have for all involved! Having the opportunity to help our neighbors in need as they navigate challenging circumstances is truly an honor.”

Sarah joins the team after having spent 15 years working within the social services sector spanning roles in crisis social work to leadership and nurturing a love for fundraising. She has made it her personal mission to support those who are changing our communities for the better. Outside of the office, Sarah spends time with her family and their dog (Ollie).

Valerie is the newest member of the Team, expanding intervention services to the East Valley to keep families and their pets together. Working hand-in-hand with Lost Our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe, Valerie provides resources to owners in crisis to improve their living situations and reunite them with their pets.

“It’s so important for us to think about the lives of the people behind the pets, and to make sure they are stable so that the animals have the best life possible. I love animals, and helping their people find new resources to make their lives better is a win-win for everyone.”

Although new to the animal welfare world, Valerie has worked in social services for over 30 years in the Valley, managing human service programs for three cities and four non-profits. She loves spending time with her daughter, her friends, and her precious dog “Boots”.

Luis is the newest member of the Team, expanding intervention services for the West Valley to keep families and their pets together. Working with the Maricopa County Animal and Control Center, Luis is able to provide services and interventions to families in need.

“There is a need to understand the relationship people have with their pets and the value they have in their lives. Keeping these relationships is important and helping families maintain them is a great thing!”

Although new to the animal welfare world, Luis has experience working in the social work field and working with multiple populations. Luis is currently working on his Masters in Social Work from Grand Canyon University and spends his free time enjoying sports and looking at dog videos.