Meet our team

Melody Holm started  Cats & Friends Rescue and Rehabilitation LLc. Less then years ago, Mainly focused on cats but also, doing breeding for dogs. Her agency has breeded three kitty litters since opened. Melody Holm is the Agency Executive Director and runs day-day operations. She continues to be a voice and hope for stray cats. Her and her Housemates Amy Hall as the Agency Assistant Director and now Crystal Mecartea as the Agency Program Director all three co-founded the shelter and since then they have been really successful. her and her partners plan to have success for years to come. Melody was also a practicing legal secretary for 22 years working in everything from Probate law, family and juvenile,  criminal and civil law.  She also used to own horses and helped manage barn animals like pigs, sheep, chickens, horses, and one milk cow. With over a decade of experience in animal welfare, Her vision drives our shelter's policies and programs, ensuring every cat receives top-notch care. 

Amy Hall is the co-founder of Cats & Friends Rescue and Rehabilitation LLc. She runs the agencies respite and rehabilitation efforts. she has had the opportunity to rehabilitate some of the younger kittens. She really enjoys what she does. She also runs the day-to-day operations of the shelter for our cats. she also owns a three legged dog who acts as her SA Services Animal. She is an animal behavior expert who specializes in rehabilitating cats with emotional and physical challenges. Amy is also the house manager for a peaceful haven LLC for the peoria house were her and her housemates live. She got this role due to being a behavioral health nurse and working in Behavioral Health.  Her hands-on approach and understanding of feline behavior help many cats and sometimes dogs transition to a more positive state.

Crystal Mecartea is the heart behind our cat adoption and foster care programs. As Program Director at Cats & Friends Rescue and Rehabilitation LLc, Crystal Mecartea leads adoption, foster care, and early intervention programs, ensuring every cat receives the individualized care they need. The adoptive daughter of founder Melody Holm, Crystal grew up surrounded by a love for animals and a deep sense of purpose. She coordinates volunteer training, adoption matches, and early-stage kitten rehabilitation—helping every animal find a loving home. she, co-founded and manages cat rescue and rehabilitation operations.
Crystal, oversees adoption programs, behavioral rehabilitation, and public education initiatives. At home, she shares her life with her playful emotional support cat, **Ella**, whose joy and energy reflect the love and compassion Crystal brings to her work each day.

Jasmine Flores serves as the Adoption & Foster Care Licensing Manager, overseeing the placement and licensing programs that help animals find safe, loving homes. With a passion for animal welfare and a commitment to community education, Jasmine ensures that every foster and adoptive family is fully prepared to provide the highest standard of care. She manages the screening, training, and licensing process for foster and adoptive applicants, maintaining compliance with all organizational and state regulations. Known for her compassionate approach and attention to detail, Jasmine works closely with volunteers, fosters, and adopters to create positive, lasting matches for every animal in need. Dedicated and approachable, Jasmine brings warmth and professionalism to her role. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her rescue pets, supporting local shelters, and advocating for responsible pet ownership. 

Michael Anderson serves as the Agency Compliance Manager, ensuring that all organizational operations, programs, and partnerships adhere to federal regulations and contractual obligations. With extensive experience in compliance oversight and nonprofit governance, Michael safeguards the organization’s integrity while supporting its mission to protect and rehome animals in need. He manages the review, negotiation, and implementation of contracts, while maintaining detailed documentation and audit readiness. Michael collaborates closely with leadership and program teams to align funding requirements with daily operations, ensuring transparency and accountability across all initiatives. Known for his analytical mindset and strong ethical standards, Michael brings both precision and purpose to his role. Outside of work, he enjoys community service, mentoring professionals in the nonprofit sector, helping LLC’s and Nonprofits corporations get off the ground. 

Rebecca Mecartea is the agency program manager at  cats and friends, rescue and rehabilitation LLC. where she oversees the transitional homes that provide short-term placement for cats before they return to the shelter for rehabilitation, breeding, or adoption. In these carefully managed environments, Rebecca ensures that each cat receives personalized care, comfort, and stability during their 14-day or shorter stay. In addition to her management role, Rebecca coordinates the onboarding and training of new volunteers, helping them become confident and compassionate members of the cats and friends team. Her leadership fosters a nurturing, organized, and mission-driven atmosphere that reflects the organization’s deep commitment to feline welfare. Proud to be part of an agency that genuinely cares for every cat it serves, Rebecca brings warmth, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose to everything she does at  cats and friends. 

Shelly Davis is the Volunteer and Adoption Event  Coordinator at cats and friends Rescue And Rehabilitation Shelter. In her role, she oversees the daily operations that keep the shelter running smoothly — from organizing volunteer efforts to managing the flow of donations and essential supplies. Shelly ensures that every cat, kitten, and caregiver has the tools and resources they need for comfort, care, and recovery.  With a deep compassion for animals and a heart for community service, Shelly is often the friendly face new volunteers meet first. She works closely with the volunteer and rehabilitation teams to maintain a nurturing environment where both people and pets can thrive. Her attention to detail and genuine love for animals make her an invaluable part of the Cats and Friends family. 

Shadante Hearns serves as the ESA & Service Animal Coordinator, specializing in the placement, support, and oversight of Emotional Support and Service Animals within the organization’s care network. With a deep understanding of animal behavior and the therapeutic benefits of the human–animal bond, Shadante works to ensure that every animal and handler are set up for lasting success. She manages assessments, training coordination, and documentation for animals qualifying as emotional support or service companions. Shadante collaborates closely with adopters, foster families, and partner organizations to match animals with individuals whose lives can be enhanced through their companionship and assistance. Her compassion, patience, and professionalism shine through in every interaction. Outside of work, Shadante enjoys community outreach, supporting accessibility initiatives, and spending time with her own service-trained companions.

Alyssa Woodall is a compassionate Adoption & Rehabilitation Coordinator dedicated to improving the lives of cats in need. With a deep love for animals and a strong background in shelter operations and feline care, Alyssa works tirelessly to match rescued cats with loving, permanent homes. She oversees every stage of the adoption and rehabilitation process — from intake and medical recovery to socialization and placement — ensuring each cat receives the care, patience, and attention they deserve. Alyssa collaborates closely with veterinarians, volunteers, and adopters to promote successful transitions and lifelong bonds. Passionate about animal welfare and community education, Alyssa also leads outreach efforts that encourage responsible pet ownership, spaying and neutering, and the rehabilitation of shy or neglected cats. Her work reflects a heartfelt commitment to giving every cat a second chance at a safe, happy life.

Javier Campos is a dedicated Foster Care Licensing Coordinator with a deep commitment to ensuring safe, nurturing, and supportive environments for cats in foster care. With extensive experience in child welfare services, Javier specializes in guiding prospective foster parents through the licensing process, maintaining compliance with state regulations, and fostering positive relationships between families and agencies. Known for his compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills, Javier works closely with multidisciplinary teams within the agency to assess homes, provide training and ongoing support to caregivers, and advocate for the well-being of every cat in placement. His work reflects a lifelong passion for strengthening families and building communities where every child can thrive. When he’s not coordinating licensing efforts, Javier enjoys community outreach, traveling places. and participating in local initiatives that promote animal advocacy and family development. He also is the Child Welfare Director/ Developmental Home Coordinator at The DDD foster care and adoption agency, Unity caring hearts LLc. 

Jessica Snider is a compassionate and detail-oriented Foster Care Licensing Coordinator devoted to improving the lives of cats in need through safe and loving foster care. With a strong background in animal welfare and community engagement, Jessica oversees the licensing and support of foster caregivers, ensuring each cat receives the care, comfort, and attention necessary to thrive. She works closely with foster families, veterinarians, and shelter teams to ensure compliance with program standards while providing education and ongoing support to caregivers. Jessica’s patient, organized approach helps foster parents feel confident and prepared, creating positive outcomes for both cats and their temporary families. Driven by a deep love for animals and a commitment to ethical care, Jessica continues to expand foster programs that promote healing, trust, and successful adoption journeys for every cat she helps place.

Addie Jensen is a dedicated Foster Care Licensing Coordinator who plays a key role in supporting and expanding the foster network for cats in need. With a deep passion for animal welfare and years of hands-on experience in feline care, Addie helps ensure every foster home provides a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for cats of all ages and backgrounds. In her role, Addie guides foster caregivers through the licensing and onboarding process, offering training, resources, and ongoing support to help each placement succeed. She collaborates closely with shelter staff, veterinary teams, and volunteers to maintain high standards of care and ensure positive experiences for both cats and caregivers. Addie’s compassionate nature, strong communication skills, and commitment to ethical animal care make her an invaluable advocate for cats in transition. Her work helps build a community of dedicated foster families who provide comfort, love, and second chances to cats on their journey to adoption.

Jennifer Collado serves as the Foster Care Licensing Coordinator for the North and South Valley Regions, supporting foster families across both Northern and Southern Arizona — from the Phoenix area up to Prescott and down through Tucson and the surrounding communities. With a heart for animals and a deep commitment to rescue and rehabilitation, Jennifer helps guide foster parents through the licensing process, ensuring each family is well-prepared to provide safe, loving care. She offers ongoing support, training, and guidance, building a strong network of compassionate caregivers for cats and kittens in need. In her role, Jennifer bridges communities across Arizona — from the desert foothills of the North Valley to the vibrant rescue community in Tucson and Southern Arizona. Her dedication strengthens the organization’s mission to provide every animal with the chance to heal, grow, and find a forever home.

Sierra Carlson is a skilled and compassionate Veterinary Care Coordinator dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, and comfort of every animal in her care. With a strong background in veterinary medicine and animal rehabilitation, Sierra oversees medical assessments, treatment plans, and ongoing health monitoring for animals throughout their recovery and adoption journeys. She works closely with veterinarians, technicians, and caregivers to coordinate medical procedures, maintain accurate health records, and provide education on preventive care and wellness. Sierra’s attention to detail and calm, caring approach help animals receive the best possible outcomes—whether they’re recovering from illness, injury, or neglect. Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Sierra advocates for accessible veterinary care and community education on responsible pet health. Her dedication to animal welfare and commitment to compassionate, high-quality care make her an essential member of the team.

Ashley Mecartea serves as the Human Resources Assistant, supporting day-to-day HR operations with a focus on employee relations, recruitment, and administrative coordination. Known for her strong organizational skills and approachable demeanor, Ashley ensures that every staff member receives the resources and support they need to succeed. With a background in office administration and a passion for people-first management, Ashley plays a key role in onboarding new employees, maintaining accurate personnel records, and assisting with policy implementation. She brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to her work, helping create a positive and efficient workplace culture. Outside the office, Ashley enjoys spending time outdoors, volunteering in her community, and continuing to expand her professional knowledge in human resources management. 

Lisa Simpson serves as the Adoption Aid, providing essential support to ensure smooth and efficient daily operations across all departments. Known for her reliability, attention to detail, and warm professionalism, Lisa is often the first point of contact for staff, clients, and partners, ensuring every interaction reflects the organization’s values and commitment to excellence. With a strong background in office management and customer service, Lisa manages scheduling, communications, and documentation with precision and care. Her ability to anticipate needs and solve problems quickly makes her an indispensable part of the team.

Jimmy Bostwick serves as an Social Media & Records Coordinator, ensuring that every adoption, intake, and medical record within the organization is accurate, accessible, and secure. With a meticulous eye for detail and a passion for efficiency, Jimmy plays a key role in maintaining the systems that keep the rescue’s operations running smoothly. He oversees data management, reporting, and compliance tracking, helping the team make informed decisions that improve animal care and placement outcomes. Jimmy’s dedication to organization and process improvement supports transparency, accountability, and the overall mission of saving lives and creating happy homes for animals in need. Beyond his administrative expertise, Jimmy is known for his teamwork, dependability, and commitment to animal welfare. Outside of work, he enjoys volunteering at adoption events, exploring new technology, and spending time with his own rescue pets. 

Madi Cain is a dedicated Respite & Breeding Coordinator who plays a vital role in supporting the well-being and sustainability of animal care programs. With a passion for animal health, responsible breeding practices, and caregiver support, Madi ensures that every animal in her care receives the highest standard of attention and compassion. In her role, Madi manages respite care placements, providing temporary safe havens for animals in transition or recovery. She also oversees ethical breeding programs focused on maintaining healthy, well-socialized animals while upholding the highest standards of care and welfare. Her organizational skills, deep understanding of animal behavior, and commitment to humane practices make her an invaluable member of the team. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Madi is passionate about community education and advocacy, promoting responsible pet ownership and the importance of compassionate animal stewardship. Her work reflects a lifelong dedication to nurturing both animals and the people who care for them.