Do you have a hero or mentor in the animal welfare field—someone who inspired you or taught you the ropes? Who was it, and what made them so influential? That was the question we asked you for this issue’s Coffee Break. We were inspired by your incredible stories of the heroes in this field, and heartened to see that so many of you have benefitted from dedicated mentors! We could only fit a few of the great stories here; to read more of your answers, visit animalsheltering.org/coffeebreak.

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In 1977, when I had been working in sheltering for just over three years, I went to an HSUS regional conference. I attended a workshop given by Phyllis Wright, [then] the vice president of companion animals for HSUS. The title of her workshop was “How Humane is Your Humane Society?” I was mesmerized by Phyllis’s talk about standards of care for those in our care. Those words have lived inside of me for over 30 years and have inspired me every day to provide the highest level of care to the animals in my shelter. That question has been the fuel that drives my passion. I have in turn asked that question of staff many times over the years, challenging them to always be looking at the quality of care they provide. One hundred and fifty words are much too short to do justice to Phyllis Wright. Thanks for the opportunity to honor her.

—Penny E. Cistaro, Executive Director, Whatcom Humane Society, Bellingham, Washington

Mike Schallock would be a hero and mentor. Mike was one of our organization’s founders 40 years ago. Over the years, when turmoil has hit our organization, Mike has always been a calming but determined force, reminding us that “It’s about the animals,” not politics, personalities, or public pressure. Do what is right for the animals and you will always be fine. At 80-plus, Mike still is active with horses and embraces life to its fullest. Even with health issues that challenge him, he is more productive then many 30-year-olds—no excuses, just action in the right direction, every day. I wish to grow to be more like him in tenacity and commitment, perseverance and attitude. One doesn’t have to be flashy, but simple dedication without planning and activity will not change the world. You must rationally act out a plan daily to make a difference.

—Lynn Olenik, Executive Director, Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County, Waukesha, Wisconsin

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To see and respond to the latest Coffee Break question, check out animalsheltering.org/coffeebreak.