Paws In Need has no paid staff and no building. A small core of volunteers runs every program, reviews every case, and answers the phone.
That is why the personal, case-by-case approach is possible at all, and why almost every dollar raised goes back into surgeries and treatment.
Meet the dedicated volunteers leading Paws In Need.
Lisa Williams
President and Medical Programs DirectorBoard member since 2013Having participated in several advocacy groups over the years, Lisa honed her skills within various segments of the animal world, from fostering animals and running adoption events, to holding Board positions and managing fundraising activities. As co-founder of Paws In Need, Lisa has created an organization committed to the principles of compassion, cooperation, and community support.
Beatrice "Bea" Bauerly
Vice President and SecretaryBoard member since 2013The strings of Bea’s heart have always been pulled by animals, all animals. Bea considers herself very fortunate to share that passion and be a strong advocate for animals that cannot take care of themselves. Paws In Need closes the gap left by regular rescue agencies in its efforts to eliminate unnecessary suffering and euthanasia.
Gail Requa
CFO and TreasurerBoard member since 2025Gail never met a furry creature she didn't like...back in her paper drive days as a teen, she was well known for being distracted by every dog or cat that crossed her path, and that passion continues to this day. She is excited to bring her varied work and service experiences to finding ways to enhance the bonds between owners and pets who find themselves in difficult circumstances and preventing unnecessary animal suffering and euthanasia.
Linda Heyes
Accounting Director and Bottle Babies ProgramBoard member since 2025Linda has always been compassionate about the mission of Paws In Need, and has been part of the financial team since 2015. She has dedicated herself to saving orphaned kittens separated from their mothers and vulnerable on the streets and in shelters. Fostering neonatal kittens gives them the best chance they have to survive.
Hathi Winston
Communication DirectorBoard member since 2017Growing up on a ranch in Pleasanton, Hathi has nurtured a special appreciation of animal companions her entire life, mainly dogs adopted from local shelters and rescues or taken in as strays. The mission of Paws In Need spoke to her, with its message of preventing overpopulation and helping pet owners who cannot afford urgent veterinary care.
Leslie Silberman, MBA
Development and Marketing DirectorBoard member since 2021Since the guiding mission of Paws In Need appealed so strongly to Leslie's passion for animals, especially dogs, she decided to join the organization as Grant Writer in 2019. In this role, Leslie has relied upon her communication and organizational skills to secure funding necessary to sustain the vital programs run by Paws in Need. In May 2021, she was asked to serve on the Board as Development and Marketing Director to further promote this organization's vision.