Meet our Team
We’re a passionate, volunteer-powered rescue driven by dedication, compassion, and a shared mission to help animals in need. Every person on this team donates their time and heart to ensure every animal gets the care, love, and second chance they deserve.
Board of Directors
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Marc Heethuis-Dubois
Marc has been deeply committed to animal welfare for many years, dedicating his time and energy to helping animals of all kinds — from tiny mice to cows and horses. His hands-on experience across a wide range of species has shaped his belief that every animal is an individual, deserving of compassion, respect, and the right to self-determination. Driven by this philosophy, Marc is passionate about advocating for stronger, more inclusive animal welfare laws. Through consistent outreach, education, and action, he hopes to inspire meaningful, lasting change for animals everywhere.
Co-Founder & Operations Manager
Jay Heethuis-Dubois
Jay has been involved in animal welfare for several years, working hands-on with a wide variety of species. Their passion lies in advancing the long-term vision of Boomer’s Haven — expanding into a larger space to better serve animals of all kinds, regardless of species. Through public engagement, education, and open dialogue, Jay is dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare issues and promoting meaningful change. Their ultimate goal is to help strengthen animal protection laws in Alberta and beyond, building a more compassionate future for all animals.
Vice-President
Rochelle Price
Rochelle has had a lifelong love for animals, often being the go-to person when someone asked, “Do you want another cat?” In 2017, that deep affection turned into action when she began volunteering with both companion and farm animal rescues. Driven by compassion and a desire to make a difference, Rochelle is committed to sharing the joy and value of animals with others — and to encourage more people to join the effort to reduce cruelty and promote kindness. She hopes to play even a small part in creating a better world for animals, one act of care at a time.
Treasurer
Nathalie Martel
A lifelong animal advocate, Nathalie has been actively involved in animal welfare since 2006. Their work spans a wide range of efforts, from volunteering in shelters for domestic animals to engaging in humane education, wildlife rescue, and legislative advocacy aimed at elevating the legal status of animals across all species. With a strong focus on policy and systemic change, Nathalie is deeply committed to improving how animals are viewed and treated under the law — particularly those whose lives are impacted by our homes, environments, and industries, where current standards often fall short of what is just and humane. Nathalie is passionate about continuing this mission by fostering meaningful partnerships and supporting the organization’s goals in delivering excellence in animal care and advocacy.
Communications Director
Lina Hage
Lina has been an animal lover for as long as she can remember, having shared her life with a variety of pets — from frogs and tortoises to hamsters and cats. Among them, one stood out as her soul cat, whose deep bond and lasting impact inspired her to carry his legacy forward through animal advocacy. While new to volunteering in animal rescue specifically, Lina has been active in community-based volunteer work and is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. Her commitment to creating a more compassionate world for animals is matched by her professional expertise in communications and marketing. With a strong background in building brands and growing organizations, Lina is excited to help BHARS expand its reach, strengthen its reputation, and continue making a meaningful difference for animals in need.
Fundraising Director
Jennifer Mann
Jennifer has spent the last 30 years volunteering and working with animals. She and her family have been blessed with many beloved pets over the years, each one deepening her passion for animal care and connection. Through her company, Mann’s BFF, Jennifer uses her dog training & healing expertise to support the wonderful dogs who come through BHARS. In addition to her work with animals, she is also an Empowerment Coach, helping pet owners—and people from all walks of life—find confidence, clarity, and calm. Jennifer also brings a strong background in business and finance, adding depth and balance to all that she does.
Warm Whiskers Project Director
Deveney Gillies
Growing up in a home where dogs were always present — and with early memories of caring for cats — Deveney has long had a deep connection to animals. However, it was in November 2024 that her connection to cats made an impactful return. After spotting four kittens playing outside in the first heavy snowfall of the season, Deveney felt compelled to bring them to safety. Successfully trapping the kittens opened her eyes to the feline overpopulation crisis in the community, particularly the urgent need for resources to support feral and stray cats. By December 2024, the Warm Whiskers Project was born — an initially small effort soon expanded to meet growing community needs. Today, WWP is proud to operate as an initiative under BHARS, working together to make a lasting difference for cats in need around Southern Alberta.
Secretary
Stephanie Bakhmoutski
Stephanie has a deep love for animals and has been drawn to cats since she was a child, especially the less fortunate. It has been her life-long dream to help as many of them as possible and advocate to be their voices. While she may not have the space at home to welcome them all - her heart knows no bounds. Stephanie is grateful for the opportunity to put her experience to good use in support of the BHARS mission. Her expertise will contribute to the growth of Boomer’s Haven and help reach even more animals in need. "saving one animal doesn’t change the whole world, but the whole world changes for that one animal."
Medical Director
Sarah Richards
Coming soon.
Coordinators
Warm Whiskers Project Coordinator
Brit Treichel
A lifelong animal lover, Brit's passion for animal welfare took on a new dimension in the fall of 2024. When their wife spotted a group of kittens playing in the snow, that moment marked the beginning of a journey trapping and caring for stray and feral cats. Since then, thanks to the overwhelming support from the local community, Brit has played an active role in addressing the needs of Southern Alberta’s stray and feral cat populations. From trapping and TNVR to barn programs and adoption journeys, WWP is dedicated to giving every cat the best possible chance at a better life. Today, the Warm Whiskers Project is proud to be an extension of the BHARS team, working together to make it better for the cats who need us most.