Founder, Director, President, and CEO

Cynthia was raised with a deep love for animals—a trait passed down by her father—even in a time and neighborhood where compassion for pets was scarce. Growing up in Compton, she witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of stray animals, dog-fighting rings, and a lack of humane education and resources. Undeterred, she began rescuing strays at thirteen years old, nurturing them with food, baths, and shelter while collaborating with local shelters and a compassionate neighbor who inspired her early efforts.

Over the years, Cynthia became increasingly involved in rescue work across the city, offering aid to animals in alleyways, abandoned homes, riverbeds, and homeless communities. She also photographed shelter dogs and used social media to encourage the public to adopt. Although she only discovered large rescue organizations around 2015 and began volunteering with them in 2017, her foster record speaks for itself: her home has opened its doors to nearly 1,000 animals in need.

By 2018, Cynthia had found her true niche in caring for high-medical and special-needs dogs, believing every case offered an opportunity to learn and grow. Today, as President and CEO of Barks Without Borders, she works closely with multiple shelters, community members, and fellow organizations to make a more significant impact through collective advocacy. Her guiding principle remains the same as when she first rescued a stray at thirteen: “Together, we are better.”

Founder, Director, Vice President, and COO

Nicole’s passion for animal welfare took root early in life. While still in high school, she teamed up with her mother to bottle-feed newborn kittens—an experience that sparked her enduring dedication to rescue work. Over the years, her commitment to compassion has led her to support the growth, development, rehabilitation, and eventual adoption of hundreds of animals in need, from neonate kittens and puppies to dogs requiring special care or medical attention.

As one of the driving forces behind Barks Without Borders, Nicole brings firsthand insight into the challenges of animal rescue. She has seen how gaps in existing systems leave countless animals vulnerable, and she tirelessly advocates for their well-being, ensuring each pet’s health, safety, and best interests remain the top priority.

By co-founding Barks Without Borders, Nicole answered the overwhelming call she saw in her community: to provide love, care, and a second chance to animals who need it most. Her mission aligns perfectly with the organization’s guiding principle that together, we are better—a belief shared by the entire Barks Without Borders team.

Founder, Managing Director, Secretary, Treasurer, and CFO

For more than two decades, Jon has shared life with a series of remarkable rescue dogs, each arriving with a unique challenge and leaving a profound lesson behind. From comforting a pup struggling with separation anxiety to caring for another with special medical needs, Jon discovered that every rescue experience has the power to transform both dog and human alike.

Over the years, his home became a refuge for dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments—many of whom required specialized care or patient, gentle guidance. Each success story reaffirmed Jon’s belief that unconditional love and the right resources can help any dog overcome even the most challenging circumstances.

Jon did not begin with extensive involvement in the rescue community. Instead, these firsthand lessons in patience, compassion, and unwavering loyalty fueled his desire to make a difference on a broader scale. By co-founding Barks Without Borders, he brings a wealth of practical, real-world insights to the organization, ensuring that a deep-rooted passion for animal welfare guides careful financial oversight and operational management. In partnership with Cynthia and Nicole, Jon is proud to help shape a rescue where every animal can heal, grow, and find its forever home.