Grace Kelly Herbert’s passion for helping animals is so strong that she has dedicated herself full time to running the Finding Shelter Animal Rescue, which she co-founded in 2010. “I’m the only full-time employee we have,” says Herbert. “And we have between 40 and 60 part-time volunteers.”
Since Finding Shelter began, the foster-based rescue located in Herbert’s Norristown residence, is responsible for placing more than 400 dogs in permanent homes. She’s taken in dogs with behavioral and medical needs, and has rescued the most vulnerable from deplorable puppy mills. She currently has 12 foster dogs living with her. “I network with really reputable, trusted rescues so that, if I’m full, we can get these dogs who are specific breeds into a specific-breed rescue, because that’s what’s best for them,” she says.
In addition to fundraising, a large part of Herbert’s responsibilities is raising awareness about Finding Shelter and its mission. “I did have a full-time paying job for years,” she says. “It didn’t offer me the fulfillment that this does.”
Although Herbert has only been able to pay herself a very minimal salary in her current position, she’s OK with it. “It’s definitely a sacrifice, but it’s been a very beautiful way to live in some aspects,” she says.
