Name: Stacey Cole

Position: Chief Development Officer

What were you doing before joining the ARL: I have been working in fundraising and development for over 10 years, most recently with the Reading Hospital Foundation and previously with Alvernia University and other educational institutions.

What does animal welfare mean to you personally: To me personally, it’s about treating animals with respect and compassion. Animal welfare is about protecting those who can’t speak for themselves and ensuring they have the care, comfort and kindness they deserve. I also believe we should do what we can to keep animals with their families who love them by offering resources and support without judgement.

What’s one professional or personal goal you’re excited to reach in the next year: I recently started golf lessons and hope to feel confident enough to get out on the course.

What is one thing you wish people knew about your job: A lot of people think this job is just “asking for money.” Fundraising and development is about building genuine relationships with our community and helping them understand what we do, why it matters, and how they can be part of it. It also involves a great deal of strategy, planning, and creativity—finding the right ways to connect with people, tell meaningful stories, and match donors’ passions with our mission. And above all, it requires flexibility; no two days are the same, and we’re constantly adapting to meet the needs of both the organization and the people who support it.

If you could tell every donor one thing, what would it be: If I could tell every donor one thing, it would be that every gift matters. Whether it’s $10 or $10,000, each donation to the ARL is an act of generosity and compassion for our work. For some, giving even a small amount is a meaningful sacrifice—and that generosity means the world to us. Your support, no matter the size, creates a real impact every single day.

An animal you’ll never forget: Early in my time at the ARL, we responded to a large collector case involving over 20 animals. One of them, Minnie — a black and white pit mix — was especially shut down and fearful. I brought her into my office for the day to give her some calm, positive human interaction. She spent most of her time curled up under my desk, but by the end of the day, she had taken a treat from my hand and allowed me to gently pet her.

That same day, a family was visiting to meet a few dogs, and Minnie was on their list. To help her feel safe, I suggested they meet her in my office where she was already comfortable. After the visit, the family left to think it over. A few days later, they returned and adopted Minnie. Today, she’s thriving — living a happy life with a loving family who gave her the chance she needed.

What is your favorite memory at ARL: My first Festival of Trees as a staff member was one to remember. Admittedly, I was nervous to speak in front of the crowd and host the “fund in need” section of the evening, but the nerves didn’t last long. It was so much fun to interact with our guests and raise a lot of money for our Department of Animal Protection.

Any last words of wisdom: Everyone has the ability to make a difference, and no act of kindness is too small. From sharing a Facebook post about our animals for adoption or an upcoming event, to volunteering at the shelter or on a committee, to making a gift or leaving us in your will – it all helps our mission.