Amanda Hickman & Erin Long on the Heart Behind Animal Rescue

Sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union Amanda Hickman, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Harford County, and longtime team member Erin Long join Rich and cohost Michelle Hayes to discuss the life-saving work happening behind the scenes at the shelter. From the challenges of open-admission operations to the critical importance of community support, they dive deep into what it really takes to protect, heal, and rehome thousands of animals each year. Whether you're a pet lover, potential adopter, or just curious about the incredible impact of animal shelters, this conversation will change the way you see your local Humane Society. Guests: Amanda Hickman is the Executive Director of the Humane Society of Harford County. With a background in public service and nonprofit management, Amanda brings a passion for community-driven work and a strategic focus on data, fundraising, and outreach. Erin Long has been with the Humane Society for over 18 years. With a heart rooted in animal welfare, she transitioned from the for-profit world to dedicate her life to caring for animals in need and advocating for humane solutions across the county. Main Topics: ·         Why Amanda left government to lead the Humane Society·         The critical role of marketing and development in nonprofit success·         The function and challenges of an open-admission shelter·         Erin’s 18-year journey and what’s kept her dedicated to the mission·         Misconceptions about the Humane Society and how it differs from other organizations·         The food pantry program and its role in pet retention·         Unique and unusual animals they’ve taken in·         Community programs like Pets for Patriots and vaccine clinics·         The importance of fostering and volunteer support·         Youth involvement and inspiring donation drives·         Future goals: expanding public spay/neuter services·         Ways individuals and businesses can support the shelter  Resources mentioned: ·         Humane Society of Harford County: harfordshelter.org·         Freedom Federal Credit Union (sponsor): freedomfcu.org·         Pets for Patriots: petsforpatriots.org·         Tito’s Vodka – Vodka for Dog People: vodkafordogpeople.com·         Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company (vaccine clinic)·         Shifting Gears (nonprofit for foster youth transportation)·         Putts Fore Paws Golf Tournament·         Pup Crawl & Cash Bingo FundraisersSend us Fan MailCelebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland!https://bookfairatbelair.org/Freedom Federal Credit UnionHELPING YOU REACH YOUR FINANCIAL DREAMSDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email