The Board of Directors of the Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) has appointed Eric Knight as executive director for HSVC. Knight joins HSVC as an experienced leader and development professional with seven years of involvement in the Ventura County nonprofit sector.
Knight will be officially welcomed during Open House & Birthday Bash, a community event celebrating HSVC’s 90th year, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 11, at HSVC’s Ojai shelter, 402 Bryant St. Attendees are invited to visit the shelter, meet Knight and other HSVC officials, and help celebrate HSVC’s nine decades of service to animals in Ventura County.
“Eric Knight comes to us with a strong nonprofit background,” said Cyndy Treutelaar, board president. “He exudes enthusiasm and positivity. The Board of Directors is excited to have Eric join us, with shelter director Jolene Hoffman, to further grow our organization and broaden our presence in the county.”
While at the American Cancer Society, and as development director at the Museum of Ventura County, Knight oversaw all aspects of annual giving, membership and grants.
“It’s truly an honor to be serving in this capacity,” said Knight, who assumes his new duties immediately. “The Humane Society of Ventura County has been making a meaningful impact for 90 years, and it is a big responsibility to steward this mission, and to engage new stakeholders as we shine an even brighter light on the great work being done here for animals and education, by the dedicated staff and volunteers.”
At the birthday event, Ojai Mayor Betsy Stix will help cut the cake; food trucks and vendors will be featured; and visitors will be invited to take a behind-the-scenes look at the facility, tour the kennels, and learn about volunteer opportunities.
Guests will have an opportunity to meet the staff, including Dr. Christina Sisk, HSVC director of veterinary services; and tour the shelter’s state-of-the-art Spay and Neuter Clinic. HSVC Humane officers will offer a look at the responsibilities and duties of protecting animals.
Also at the event will be shelter animals looking for forever homes. “A full house of furry friends will be available for adoption,” said Steve McCurry, HSVC community outreach coordinator. “You never know when you are going to meet your new best friend.”
“Bring the whole family to enjoy refreshments, make bandanas for your dogs, and learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of animals in need,” McCurry said.
However, he added, “We ask that you leave your own pets at home during this event for the safety of our shelter animals and the public.”
The Humane Society of Ventura County “has a rich history of providing compassionate care to animals in need across Ventura County,” McCurry said. “This year’s Open House & Birthday Bash is an opportunity to celebrate our milestone of 90 years partnering with the community in animal welfare-related issues.”
The Humane Society of Ventura County is seeking Community Partners for support. For more information, call McCurry at 805-910-6240, or visit www.hsvc.org.