Rural and Underfunded but Still Making It Work: How to Lead Local Change

“Everybody has a role, and if we open up the conversation just a little more, we can help change the numbers—and the lives of these animals.”

Listen to episode #616 now, featuring Brandi Winkleman, President and Executive Director of A HOPE.

This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund.

In this powerful and emotionally resonant episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Brandi Winkleman, President and Executive Director of A HOPE Inc., an animal welfare organization based in Milton, Florida. Brandi shares the raw, eye-opening experiences that catapulted her from volunteer to changemaker, including heart-wrenching scenes from her local shelter that inspired her to take action. Through grassroots advocacy, community education, and data-driven approaches, Brandi and her team have transformed a once high-kill county into a model of collaborative, humane solutions.

Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of rural animal welfare and the lifesaving gaps Brandi is working to bridge—especially around low-cost spay/neuter access and shelter-to-rescue transfers. She also provides a behind-the-scenes look at A HOPE’s upcoming spay/neuter clinic, designed with input from top industry professionals to meet the unique needs of her community. This episode is a masterclass in how local leadership, transparency, and positive collaboration can create sustainable change.

Press Play Now For:

• A vivid account of the moment that changed Brandi’s life forever
• How data visualization helped shift public opinion on shelter euthanasia
• The two key “lifesaving gaps” Brandi identified—and how she’s solving them
• Tips on navigating small-town politics and turning skeptics into allies
• A sneak “peek” at A HOPE’s new 4,000 sq. ft. clinic designed for both efficiency and compassion

Resources & Links:

• A HOPE Website – https://www.ahope4src.com
• A HOPE on Facebook: @AHOPEMilton – https://www.facebook.com/ahopemilton
• Florida SART Emergency Management Courses – https://flsart.org/
• Bissell Pet Foundation – https://www.bissellpetfoundation.org/
• Florida Animal Friend Grant Program – https://floridaanimalfriend.org/grants/

Sponsor Links:

• Maddie’s Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies616)

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