Rescue, Rehome, Repeat: The Lifesaving Efforts of Baypath Humane Society with Liz Jefferis (Ep. 20)

Behind every animal rescue is a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. This one’s no different.

In this heartfelt episode, host Abbey Henderson, CFP®, CEO Wealth Advisor & Coach, sits down with Liz Jefferis, the Executive Director of Baypath Humane Society, about the incredible work they’re doing to rescue, rehome, and rehabilitate animals in need. Liz shares her journey from a career in financial services to leading one of Massachusetts’ most impactful animal shelters, driven by her love for animals and a desire to make a difference.

Together, they explore the growing challenges facing animal welfare, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how Baypath has adapted to increased pet surrenders and limited veterinary services. Liz also addresses common misconceptions about funding for local shelters, highlighting how community donations and partnerships are vital for their survival.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about animal welfare and community-driven philanthropy. Learn about Baypath’s long-term vision, including its ambitious capital campaign to build a state-of-the-art facility, and discover how you can make an impact.

Key Highlights:

• Liz Jefferis’s inspiring career shift from finance to nonprofit animal rescue
• Baypath Humane Society’s expanding mission, from local shelter to national rescue efforts
• How COVID-19 affected pet care and surrender rates, and Baypath’s resilient response
• The truth behind local humane society funding and the need for grassroots support
• Baypath’s ongoing capital campaign to build a new facility for better medical care
• Simple ways you can get involved: fostering, adopting, or volunteering to save animals
• And much more!

Resources:

• Building Baypath’s Future

Connect with Abbey Henderson: 

• LinkedIn: Abbey Henderson
• [e-mail] 
• Website: Abaris Financial Group
• Instagram: @trustedadvisor_coach
• LinkedIn: Abaris Financial Group
• X (Twitter): Abaris Financial Group

Connect with Liz Jefferis: 

• LinkedIn: Elizabeth Jefferis
• Website - Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton

About Liz Jefferis:

Liz oversees the shelter’s operations and collaborates with the board and committee members on development initiatives and strategic planning. She holds a degree in economics from Smith College and has extensive experience in animal welfare, having volunteered at shelters in Colorado and Florida before joining Baypath Humane Society. She started volunteering at Baypath in 2010. After a year of volunteering, Liz left her career in financial services to join Baypath as a full-time assistant manager in 2011 and was promoted to Executive Director in 2014.

In her role, Liz works closely with the board on strategic planning, fundraising, financial oversight, governance, and program development to ensure the organization’s long-term success and sustainability. In terms of the operation, she has led the expansion of Baypath’s community, behavior, and medical programs, including the Baypath Educates program for children, a pilot surgical program with VCA Animal Hospitals, and a pet pantry partnership with Project Just Because. Additionally, Liz has improved standard operating procedures, including implementing several software upgrades and integrations.

She has two cats and three dogs, including a senior deaf pitbull and a senior blind poodle!