Texas Border Business
Edinburg, Texas – Palm Valley Animal Society is pleased to welcome Donna Casamento as the new permanent Executive Director of the organization. Arriving from Springfield, MO, Casamento previously served as director of the HEART program in Columbus, SC; CEO of Pet Helpers in Charleston, SC; and Executive Director of the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri. Most recently she was Chief Program Officer for Michelson Found Animals in Los Angeles, CA.
Casamento toured both PVAS facilities in March and was particularly impressed with the staff.
“PVAS has some of the most dedicated staff I’ve ever encountered,” she said. “They’re fully committed to doing the work that needs to be done to save the lives of the animals in their care.”
The PVAS Board of Directors has been searching for a permanent Executive Director since July 2018.
“We’re blessed to have found such a qualified person to lead us to continued high levels of lifesaving and long-term solvency,” said PVAS board president Keely Lewis. “Donna brings the right kind of experience, pragmatism, relational skills, national connections, and passion to take Palm Valley to the next level.”
Outgoing interim Executive Director Mike Bricker, the Best Friends Animal Society staff member directing PVAS since late 2018, will provide support during the leadership transition.
“Donna brings a wealth of animal welfare experience and passion with her to the Valley,” says Bricker. “I can’t think of a more qualified person to build on the lifesaving momentum PVAS has achieved.”
PVAS has increased its lifesaving rate from 34% to 88% since 2017.
“It’s critical that we keep this momentum going,” Casamento said, “and further engage the community’s support. We’re here to provide the people and animals of the RGV with services that will not only improve the lives of companion animals but the people who love them as well.”
Although Casamento is coming on board during a historic national challenge, she believes better times are ahead for the community and that, with their help, PVAS can continue its journey to sustainable lifesaving levels of 90% or more.
“Without the support of the community,” she said. “we will not be able to achieve our lifesaving goals. The people I have met so far fill me with confidence that together we’re going to make it happen.”
Palm Valley Animal Society is the shelter of record for Edinburg, Hidalgo, Hidalgo County, La Joya, McAllen, Palmhurst, and Palmview, serving approximately 770,000 residents and 30,000 animals annually. Information on PVAS programs, services, and impact can be found online at pvastx.org.
