Karen, a founding Trustee of the Nelson ARK, holds an Honours degree in Social Science and a Postgraduate diploma in alcohol and other drug studies and recently completed a foundation certificate in adult teaching/working in groups. Her professional background is in counselling, particularly in the alcohol and other drug field; service development, tutoring and youth work. She has experience in managing and supervising volunteers, teaching and developing resources. She had taken the leadership role in the animal welfare group SAFE in Nelson for a number of years.

Susan Murray-Rifici, a founding Trustee of the Nelson ARK, is a registered New Zealand teacher with past experience teaching in Canada and the US. Several years ago she completed the police "One to One Mentoring" (now Big Brothers/Big Sisters) training. Susan has been awarded a Royal Society Teaching Fellowship for 2008 and will be researching the importance of child-animal relationships in the development of empathy towards all beings. She will be giving school presentations as well as developing programmes which teach empathy to take into the classroom. Community fundraising is another role within ARK.

Suzanne Max is the business owner of an 800acre mixed farm of cattle, cropping, dairy grazing, cashmere goats and sheep. Along with this Suzanne and family runs a tourism horse trekking business and riding centre of 60 horses of which one aspect is the support of 'at- risk youth'. Suzanne is a business leader, mentor and life-coach. Her role as Trustee is one of overseeing the business end of the operation and encouraging members to reach their full potential as an effective team.

Stephanie's background and relevant experience is in the canine field of Service Dogs for the Disabled and work with therapy dogs. She also has qualifications in Animal Industry & Companion Animal Services Certificates. At present she is studying for qualifications in Animal-Assisted Therapy. She has experience in management and supervision.

Paula's professional background is in veterinary medicine. Throughout her career she has been involved in animal welfare. As well as the professional day-to-day treatment of animals, she has done SPCA work and has also volunteered in animal welfare organisations in Africa and Nepal. Her role in ARK is as advisor for the welfare and health of the shelter animals.

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Jemma is a youth Trustee who is .

Lee is .

John is contracted to Tasman District council for Dog Control Services and is a registered SPCA inspector.

Jo offers