Board of Directors



​As a non-profit organization, BENCHS relies on our Board of Directors for guidance and governance. Currently, we are a working board, volunteering to support the work of the organization in many ways. In the past few years BENCHS has experienced significant growth: more than 1,000 dogs and cats adopted each year, a growing staff, new outreach programs and a large annual budget to manage. In 2023, we are beginning a new chapter of leadership with several changes on the Board of Directors and all new management. Our new Animal Care Manager, Lauren, is off to a fabulous start, and we are in the process of hiring a new Executive Director. It is our goal to transition to a governing board throughout the year. 

We are actively seeking additional board members who believe in our mission of finding loving forever homes for homeless cats and dogs, using spay/neuter programs to reduce the number of unwanted pets, and reuniting lost/found animals with their owners. We are actively looking for someone to take on the role of Treasurer in January of 2024, and we also have two open seats. All Board members are asked to work on fundraising initiatives, participate in strategic planning, and serve on committees. We would like you to consider joining our Board of Directors. Board members attend two meetings a month, on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6:00 pm in the Apollo Room at BENCHS. Board members are appointed for three-year terms.​

Please thoughtfully consider becoming a Board Member and if you're not ready yet, we are also seeking committee members to support the fundraising and communications work at BENCHS. You would be making a big difference for the animals, and for the community! If you would like to volunteer, please call us at 507.625.6373, email Kristin at media@benchs.org or apply online here.
Board Member Application

Our 2023 Board of Directors

President: Kristin Dauk
Vice President: John Brady
Treasurer: Rachel Calsbeek
Secretary: Kristi Erickson 
Director: Walt Anderson
​Director: Cindi Rodriguez
Director: Jonathan Singelton

Board of Directors' Meetings

The February Board of Directors' meeting will be held on Monday, February 6th due to the Valentine's Day Rose Sale event. 

The Board of Directors meets at 6:00 pm on the second Monday of every month in the Apollo Room at BENCHS. The public is invited to attend these meetings.