Board and Team
Board of Directors
Rita Grijalva - President
A Southern California native, Rita has been deeply involved in animal rescue for over 15 years, dedicating her time and expertise to one of the largest German Shepherd rescues in the region. Passionate about improving outcomes for California’s animals, she actively collaborates with the community to tackle animal welfare challenges and advocate for meaningful, lasting change.
With a strong background in public service within the animal welfare field, Rita is committed to enhancing policies, increasing awareness, and expanding vital resources for animals across the state. Beyond rescue work, she enjoys competing in scent detection trials with her two beloved dogs, celebrating the teamwork and connection that training fosters.
As a dedicated board member, Rita works tirelessly to create a future where every animal receives the care, protection, and second chance they deserve.
Elena Gaffney– Vice-President
Animals have always been an integral part of my life, not just as pets but as beloved family members. Their unconditional love, trust, and sensitivity make them extraordinary companions, and I have always felt a deep responsibility to protect and care for them.
As the founder of Angel’s Furry Friends Rescue the San Francisco Bay Area, I have dedicated my life to saving animals in need—especially those facing euthanasia in shelters or struggling in the community. Through our rescue efforts, we have given countless animals a second chance, finding them safe and loving homes where they can thrive.
Being part of their journey, whether through direct rescue or advocacy, is both an honor and a privilege. As a board member, I remain committed to expanding our impact, improving animal welfare policies, and ensuring that every animal has the chance to experience love, safety, and a future they deserve.
Elena Koshta – Board Member
Elena Koshta is a lifelong advocate for animal welfare and founder of ABC Animal Rescue, 501(c)(3) animal rescue. With a deep commitment to saving lives, she has played a vital role in rescuing hundreds of animals from euthanasia lists at Northern and Central California shelters and the public. Her work focuses on providing these animals with a second chance, ensuring they receive the care and support they need to find loving, permanent homes.
Under Elena’s leadership, ABC Animal Rescue has become a critical safety net for at-risk animals in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is passionate about implementing straightforward, effective policies to reduce suffering, improve rescue outcomes, and create sustainable solutions for the region’s animal welfare challenges.
Elena’s dedication goes beyond rescue work—she actively pushes for systemic improvements that increase transparency, accountability, and collaboration within the shelter system. As a board member, she continues to drive initiatives that save lives and shape a future where no animal is left behind.
Julia Butler – Board Member
Julia is a multi-award-winning film director, producer, best-selling author, and entrepreneur whose passion for storytelling is matched only by her dedication to animal welfare. Since childhood, she has shared a deep bond with dogs, a connection that has driven her lifelong commitment to rescue and advocacy.
While living in Italy, Julia extended her rescue efforts across borders, saving dogs from Eastern Europe. Her unwavering belief that every living creature has the right to exist led her to establish Pet Aid, a 501(c)(3) dog rescue organization in Southern California that has already saved countless lives.
Relentless in her fight for animals, Julia is a fierce advocate for stronger protections, ethical treatment, and sustainable solutions to improve shelters and rescue outcomes. As a board member, she brings her passion, global experience, and determination to create a future where no animal is left behind.