New Adoption Center Director

Last Hope Animal Rescue is pleased to announce that Julie Havran is our new Adoption Center Director!

Julie has a B.S. Degree in Human Services and M.S. Degree in Adult Education from Drake University.

After working in human services, human resources, and education, she pursued her lifelong passion for animal welfare. She became involved with Friends of the Shelter, Inc. (FOTSI) after it was formed in 2004.  FOTSI contracted to manage the Vinton/Benton County Animal Shelter in 2009.  Julie served as Shelter Director from 2009 to 2015.

After FOTSI became involved, the former Vinton-Benton County Pound (subsequently licensed as a shelter through FOTSI’s efforts) went from a survival rate of less than 40% to a  high of 98%, with a most recent three-year average of 97%.  The quality of care for the shelter animals and sanitary conditions improved dramatically while FOTSI managed the shelter.

Julie’s education, work experience as a veterinarian technician, and shelter management experience enabled her to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to serve as Adoption Center Director for Last Hope Rescue.  She also has Shelter Operations certification from American Humane.

Julie lives with her husband, dogs, and cats on an acreage NW of Cedar Rapids.

We are excited to have Julie’s knowledge and talents at the adoption center!