The Spay & Neuter Initiative: A Million-Dollar Move for Animal Welfare

The Hook

How do you solve a city-wide animal shelter crisis? You lead with a $1M strategic investment and a narrative that moves both the public and the policymakers. This wasn't just a grant announcement; it was a systemic revolution for Los Angeles pet parents.

The Strategy (The "Brain")

Tasked with honoring the legacy of philanthropists Robert and Erika Brunson, I architected a full-scale brand build-out and communications roadmap for the Spay & Neuter Initiative. My mission was to bridge the gap between high-level philanthropy and on-the-ground advocacy. I developed a multi-channel campaign designed to address the critical overcrowding in LA shelters by fueling the Community Animal Medicine Project (CAMP) $1 million grant given by Michelson Found Animals. This required a unified strategy that resonated with everyone from local pet owners to the Mayor’s office.

The Execution (The "Grit")

I served as the central hub for this launch, coordinating a cross-functional team of designers, web developers, and program leads to build a movement from the ground up.

  • Creative Direction & Branding: I directed the visual identity of the initiative, including logos, graphics, and photography. I also provided hands-on creative direction for the promotional videos, ensuring the urgency of the crisis was met with the hope of our solution.

  • Influencer & Advocate Alliances: I orchestrated a partner amplification strategy featuring high-profile voices like Nathan the Cat Lady and Dr. Kwane Stewart (CNN Hero of the Year), extending our message to millions of advocates globally.

  • Institutional Web Build-Out: I oversaw the launch of a comprehensive Resource Center and multiple program hubs, turning our website into a vital tool for the community.

  • Political & Community Activations: I collaborated with elected officials’ marketing teams to amplify policy accessibility on each other’s channels, culminating in our founder being honored at a gala attended by Mayor Karen Bass.

The Big Win (The Results)

This campaign transformed Michelson Found Animals into a recognized leader in systemic animal welfare change.

  • Million-Dollar Impact: Successfully launched a $1M grant to fuel life-saving clinics.

  • Top-Tier Media Hits: Secured major earned media coverage on KTLA, CBS, and Telemundo, generating millions of impressions.

  • Institutional Recognition: Achieved high-level visibility with city leadership and global advocacy influencers.

  • Measurable Change: Thousands of animals reached through increased accessibility and policy-driven advocacy.

Working directly in the community is what gets me up in the morning. Being able to use my marketing and communications skills to help others is my fuel. Below are two videos written & directed by Helen Larimore for Michelson Found Animals Foundation.

Links for reference

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