Meet Shafonda Allen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shafonda Allen.

Hi Shafonda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey to becoming the Executive Director of the Animal Protection Society of Durham started when I was four. Seriously, my love affair with animals started when I was a child. First with a guinea pig at three, a dog named Muffin at four, and many other animals that found their way into our home. Hamsters, turtles, a male cat named Sprinkles, most of them originally stray or classroom pets. I did not know what my life would become then, but I knew some way or how it would have to include animals.

I am a black woman who is the daughter of first-generation HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) graduates. There was a lot expected of me, my siblings, and my parents. When I was a child those expectations led to us temporarily leaving the comfort of our hometown of Durham, North Carolina because of better job opportunities for my parents in Tampa, Florida. We moved to a community that was not very diverse or welcoming. For me, having grown up in Durham with such acceptance and diversity I found this move difficult and despite my considerable charm and charisma I found making new friends tough, but there was always Muffin. I did not know then, but Muffin was one of several canine best friends I would have throughout my life. This was just the beginning of my desire to work towards supporting, encouraging, and working towards creating these human-animal bonds in the lives of myself and other people. That protecting these animals and the people who love them would become my life.

Eventually, our family migrated back to Durham, North Carolina, and Tampa became a fond memory that solidified my love of animals and helped make me the person I am today.

So, how did that child become a CAWA (Certified Animal Welfare Administrator) and an Executive Director of one of the oldest most established non-profit Animal Welfare Organizations? Very carefully. I took many turns, curves, and trails that always led me back to my love of animals and the doors of the Animal Protection Society of Durham. It started with visits that turned into a job in 1998. I started as an Adoption Counselor. I have worked many positions in the organization and in 2014 I became the Executive Director of this organization that I love, trust, and believe in.

I get to spend every day of my life working towards making this a better world for people and animals. I am so fortunate, and I am happy for every bump, turn and stumble to becoming a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator and leader of the Animal Protection Society of Durham.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey through Animal Welfare and the Animal Protection Society has not been easy or smooth. When I entered this field, I had very little experience and there were not many opportunities for growth. I had to stay focused, lean on mentors and take every opportunity for growth and education I could find. And still today this journey through Animal Welfare, especially for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) is not easy. That is why I also sit on the Board of CARE (Companions and Animals for Reform and Equity) and serve on the DEI (Diversity Equity and Inclusion) Committee of AAWA (The Association of Animal Welfare Advancement). My goal is to make this journey easier for others.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that has been helping animals in our community since 1970 and has managed the Durham County Animal Shelter since 1990. We care for nearly five thousand animals a year. We manage an animal shelter, community food pantry and we help our community with spay/ neuter costs, microchips, tags, and more.

Our Mission: The APS of Durham is a leader in building lifelong bonds between people and animals through education, community outreach, and providing care for animals in need.

Our Vision: There are no displaced or unwanted pets; all animals are treated with compassion and respect, and community services are available to all pet owners.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is that I am the best person that I can be. That I make positive impacts on the people and animals I touch. I want to be the best wife, mother, and leader I can possibly be. I want to give more than I ever take and leave a legacy of good.

In short, peace, happiness, and joy.

Contact Info:

• Email:  shafonda.allen@apsofdurham.org
• Website: https://www.apsofdurham.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aps_of_durham/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apsofdurham/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/APSofDurham
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI1n2yzcEIp-ApMsF4Pq0sQ

Image Credits
Alycat Photo and Video Services

Dena Verdesca Creative

Assorted Poppies Photo