ABOUT US
Meet Fishy, Our Heart and Inspiration
From Stray to Saved
Fishy’s story began on the streets of Lawton, OK, where he was known as the ever-elusive town stray. With a battered food bowl clutched in his mouth, Fishy wandered the neighborhoods, a silent plea for survival etched in every step. He was a ghost to some, a legend to others, and a heartbreaking sight to anyone who truly saw him—a reminder of how cruel life can be for those without a home.
For weeks, his future mom chased hope with a to-go bag always ready, dropping everything whenever Fishy’s location popped up on social media. Armed with sardines and a heart full of determination, she called out, "Fishy, Fishy, Fishy!" It was the only thing that made him pause. Slowly, cautiously, he would approach her scent of promise, the name sticking as a symbol of the trust she was earning. Six long weeks of near-misses and heartbreak led to the moment she finally wrapped him in safety—a defining moment for them both.
Now, Fishy is no longer the stray clutching a bowl; he’s the most loved dog, the face of resilience, and the spark that ignited a movement. His journey inspired the birth of Fishy’s Friends Rescue in early 2024, a foster-based organization dedicated to saving dogs like him—dogs with stories untold, hope deferred, and love desperately needed.
Today, Fishy’s name is more than a memory of his past. It’s a beacon of hope for every homeless dog we meet. Fishy’s Friends Rescue is proof that with compassion, determination, and a belief in second chances, lives can be transformed—just like his was. Together, we work to make sure every dog has the chance to move from hopeless to home.
Meet Our Amazing Team
Board of Executives
The Executive Board of Fishy’s Friends Rescue is the decision-making body responsible for overseeing operations, setting policies, and ensuring the rescue’s mission is upheld. Executive members have voting rights and play a direct role in shaping the rescue’s direction and priorities. They manage strategic planning, financial oversight, and organizational governance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and success in achieving our goals. Unlike trustees, who may serve in advisory or supporting roles without voting power, the Executive Board carries the responsibility of making final decisions that impact the future of Fishy’s Friends Rescue.
Athena (Fishy's Mom)
President/Founder
Some rescues start with a plan—Fishy’s Friends started with a promise. A promise made on a cold, lonely night to a shivering dog who had nowhere else to turn. That dog was Fishy, and the person who refused to give up on him? Athena.
As Founder and President, Athena isn’t just leading a rescue—she’s leading a movement. She believes that every homeless dog is a friend of Fishy, and through education, advocacy, and relentless dedication, she’s working to create a future where no dog is left behind.
Athena oversees the mission, vision, and strategy of Fishy’s Friends, ensuring that every decision made strengthens the rescue’s foundation and brings more dogs to safety. She’s the voice, the backbone, and the heart behind it all—building partnerships, rallying the community, and pushing forward even when the work feels impossible.
She’s the one who never turns away, who sees potential where others see problems, and who fights for the ones with no voice. Because for Athena, this isn’t just a rescue. It’s a promise. And she intends to keep it.
Kimberly (Cupcakes Mom)
Vice President
Kimberly brings a teacher’s heart and a leader’s vision to Fishy’s Friends Rescue. A dedicated educator by day and dog rescuer by night, she now serves as Vice President, helping guide the mission with both compassion and strategy. Known for her precision and organization, Kimberly continues to be the backbone of our internal systems while stepping into a larger leadership role that supports growth, structure, and long-term impact.
Kimberly first found us at an adoption event while looking for volunteer opportunities for her daughters —but quickly found herself all in. Together, this mother-daughters duo has become a powerful force within the rescue. With a passion for order and a heart for animals, Kimberly ensures that every life saved is supported by strong systems and thoughtful leadership. She’s not just keeping things running—she’s helping lead Fishy’s Friends into its next chapter.
Lauren (Maggie's Mom)
Operations Director
Lauren brings unmatched drive, compassion, and precision to Fishy’s Friends Rescue as our Operations Director. A recent nursing school graduate, she is out saving lives—both human and canine—with a heart rooted in service and a mind built for excellence. Her passion to help others is beyond measure, and it shows in every detail she touches. From big-picture coordination to the smallest moving parts, Lauren ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Serving as the bridge between executive leadership and trustees, Lauren keeps daily operations running smoothly and efficiently. She manages the day-to-day flow of the rescue with skill and dedication—overseeing clerical work, coordination, outreach, and everything in between. With an exceptional eye for detail and a natural ability to lead, she runs a well-oiled “Pawffice” and keeps the mission moving forward. Lauren doesn’t just support the rescue—she strengthens it from the inside out.
Nick (Nova's Dad)
Treasurer
Some people show up, and some people step up—Nick does both. What began with a generous donation to our microchip scanning program quickly turned into fostering, volunteering, and now, serving as our Executive Treasurer. Nick is one of the most prepared, reliable, and detail-driven members of Fishy’s Friends Rescue. From clipboards to carabiners, he somehow has everything we forgot we needed—every single time.
As Treasurer, Nick brings a sharp eye for budgeting, a gift for creative problem-solving, and a deep commitment to using every dollar wisely. He ensures our funds are used for what matters most—vet care, prevention, supplies, and the tools that save lives. He’s not just our numbers guy—he’s our steady, strategic heartbeat. As the only guy on Team Fishy, he’s not just holding his own—he’s irreplaceable.
Kylee (Blue Moose's Mom)
Secretary
Kylee brings energy, creativity, and precision to Fishy’s Friends Rescue as our Secretary. A powerhouse behind the scenes, she keeps our administrative systems organized while leading the charge on social media and digital presence. With a background as a veterinary technician and hands-on experience in animal care, she understands the mission at every level and brings that insight into everything she does.
Working alongside our Operations Director, Kylee helps run the world’s best Pawffice—keeping communication flowing, records in order, and outreach strong. Now part of Pampered Pups Mobile Grooming, she continues to support the rescue with critical clerical skills, coordination, and content that connects our community to our cause. Kylee doesn’t just keep things organized—she helps keep Fishy’s Friends seen, heard, and moving forward.
Board of Trustee's
The Trustee Board of Fishy’s Friends Rescue serves as a supportive and advisory body dedicated to advancing the rescue’s mission. Trustees provide guidance, expertise, and resources to help the Executive Board achieve the organization’s goals. While trustees do not hold voting rights, their contributions are invaluable in shaping the rescue’s strategic initiatives and ensuring its success.
Trustees act as ambassadors for the organization, advocating for its mission within the community and assisting in fundraising, networking, and resource development efforts. By offering insights and support without direct decision-making authority, the Trustee Board complements the Executive Board, fostering collaboration and a shared commitment to saving homeless dogs and uniting the community.
Together, the Trustee and Executive Boards form the backbone of Fishy’s Friends Rescue, working hand-in-paw to create a brighter future for every dog in need.
Monica ( Mark & Sig's Mom)
Supplies Director & Vet Care
Monica serves as Fishy’s Friends Rescue’s Supplies Director and Veterinary Care Specialist, bringing invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience to the team. With a strong background in veterinary care and professional prevention protocols, she ensures our dogs stay up to date on vaccines, spay and neuter scheduling, and essential health testing. Her attention to detail and commitment to proper care play a critical role in keeping our animals healthy and adoption-ready.
A devoted animal advocate and proud mom to Mark and Sig, Monica leads with both heart and expertise. She manages supplies, supports medical coordination, and helps guide the team in making informed care decisions. Her dedication to animal health and wellness makes her an irreplaceable part of Team Fishy, impacting every life we save.
Angela ( Whiskey's Mom)
Community Insight Advisor
Angela serves as Fishy’s Friends Rescue’s Community Insight Advisor, acting as our eyes and ears within the community. She stays closely connected to local happenings, monitoring social media and outreach opportunities to ensure we never miss a chance to show up, get involved, and expand our impact. Her awareness and communication help position the rescue where it matters most—right in the heart of the community.
As part of our financial team, Angela also supports grant efforts and fundraising initiatives, helping connect resources to the mission. She plays a vital role in bridging the gap between Fishy’s Friends and the public, strengthening relationships and increasing visibility. With a natural ability to connect people and purpose, Angela helps ensure our rescue continues to grow and reach those who need us most.
Serenity
Media & Event Specialist
At just 10 years old, Serenity serves as Fishy’s Friends Rescue’s Junior Media & Event Specialist. She is responsible for collecting photos and content at events, helping capture the moments that showcase each dog’s personality and journey. Working behind the scenes, Serenity plays a key role in telling the stories of our adoptable dogs — the moments, expressions, and details that help families connect and fall in love. Her thoughtful eye and quiet dedication help ensure every dog is seen, valued, and remembered.
Bree ( Buddy's Sister)
Deputy of Dollars and Meows
At just 10 years old, Bree holds the title of Deputy and serves as our Junior President Chair—often stepping into an acting president role with a little help from Mom, of course. She’s known for keeping the team on their toes by collecting “fines” among staff, bringing both accountability and a whole lot of personality to the Pawffice.
Bree observes everything with a sharp eye and isn’t afraid to offer feedback that helps improve how we operate. Her confidence, leadership instincts, and natural ability to see what others miss make her a rising force within the rescue. With a heart for animals and a voice that’s already making an impact, we have no doubt Bree will be running her own rescue one day.
Get In Touch
Please reach out to the Fishy's Friends Rescue Team. We’re thrilled to connect with you and share our mission of saving lives.
Please be patient with us—we’re busy saving the world one tail at a time! We value you and will get back to you as soon as we’ve booped all the noses today.
