The Association Blog

The Network Live is happening today, and we caught up with Wisconsin Humane’s VP of Culture and Community Impact for a sneak preview of her panel discussion on keeping families together.

The Association: We can’t wait to see you in New Orleans—also known as the birthplace of jazz. In keeping with that theme, what are you most jazzed about these days?
Jill Kline: I’m so excited that the Wisconsin Humane Society – and animal welfare overall – is thinking about how we can best support our community of people, not just animals. I am jazzed when we identify and remove barriers to help people more easily access the services they need to keep their pets at home. The community we serve is amazing and is our partner in fulfilling our mission!

The Association: What are you most jazzed about for our time together?
Jill Kline: There is so much happening at each of our organizations and in the broader landscape of animal welfare, and it can sometimes be challenging to identify the strategies that will be most impactful for our work and community. I always enjoy learning about what’s working for other organizations and leaders — and I’m particularly excited to visit NOLA. It’s one of my favorite cities!

The Association: We are looking forward to your panel discussion today on Innovations in Shelter Support to Strengthen the Human-Animal Bond during The Network Live. Can you share an idea that might help keep pets at home?  
Jill Kline: This idea is simple yet effective: Ask the family what would help them keep their animal at home, and then listen. Sometimes the barrier is something we can easily partner with them on to find a solution or provide a resource. I also believe building community trust and relationships with our communities is critical. When people trust us and know we genuinely want to help, they are more likely to reach out for support.

The Association: What can attendees prepare or think about before your session?
Jill Kline: How are you engaging with your community as partners in your work? If you’re not currently seeking feedback from them about the barriers they face and the support they need for their pets, what steps can you take to better understand their needs?

The Association: This is the first-ever Network Live, and we’re so thrilled for you to be a part of it. What is your hope for attendees?
Jill Kline: My fellow panelists Meredith and Doug and I have different backgrounds, communities, and programs to help keep pets in their homes. We hope to share something that will resonate with everyone. Building or expanding community support programs takes investment of organizational resources so it’s helpful to hear from others what’s worked for them. Our goal is to share what’s working in our communities and organizations to spark conversations among attendees at The Conference – there’s so much wisdom across the roster of conference attendees to tap into.