WHO WE ARE
Board members
Valarie Ianniello
Co-Founder/President
Valarie is a tireless animal advocate and ethical vegan with nearly 20 years of experience in animal welfare. Motivated by a deep commitment to protecting and improving the lives of animals, she founded Women United For Animal Welfare (WUFAW) to drive meaningful change and create a better future for those in need.
Mark Perez
Vice President
Mark is a devoted animal advocate who shares his life with four rescue dogs and frequently opens his home to foster animals in need. His compassion extends beyond dogs, having provided a safe haven to several pigs rescued from Puerto Rico.
Dr. Natalia Soto
Co-Founder/Board Member
Natalia co-founded Women United For Animal Welfare (WUFAW) to take a more active role in supporting animals worldwide. Her dedication is deeply personal, inspired by her efforts in Puerto Rico, where she rescued and rehabilitated a severely abused dog she lovingly named Moo.
Iris Almario
Co-Founder/Secretary
Iris’s love of animals led her to volunteer at a local shelter to work in animal rescue and eventually to WUFAW. She has two rescue dogs, including a special needs dog from China.
Jenn Simms
Board Member
Jenn’s passion for animal welfare ignited while volunteering with The Animal Pad during a major crisis at a shelter in Tijuana, Mexico. Since then, she has dedicated herself to advocating for the forgotten animals of Skid Row, working tirelessly to ensure they receive the care and compassion they deserve.
Team Members
Alexandra Bernal
Volunteer coordinator
Alexandra is a dedicated animal advocate who began her journey with WUFAW as a volunteer for our Shelter Program. She is deeply committed to improving the lives of animals and continues to advocate for their well-being.
Ashton Charles
Consultant
Ashton played a key role in transforming the Wolf Connection, an educational sanctuary for rescued wolves, into a thriving organization. He now brings his expertise and vision to WUFAW, helping to guide its growth and impact.
Travis Thi
Cuba Liaison
Travis is an invaluable member of the team, serving as a passionate fundraiser, dedicated humanitarian, and leader of WUFAW’s missions to Cuba. His commitment goes far beyond volunteering, driving impactful change for animals and communities in need.
