Welcome to the Team
AWS Announces New Hires
With recent hiring, we have added three new members to our management team. Please welcome Allie McCarthy, Cam Raymond and Astrid Wielens. The three new hires are seen here pose with a litter of puppies (who were all adopted very soon thereafter).
Astrid Wielens, Director of Administration
Joining AWS in February as Director of Administration, Astrid Wielens brings nearly twenty years of non-profit management to the team. In her role, she will manage the finances, human resources, facilities and the business office.
“AWS’ culture of empathy, compassion and inclusion drew me to this position. I am excited to have found another inspiring and rewarding mission to support.”
Astrid Wielens grew up in the Netherlands and moved to New Hampshire after college for an internship at the American Youth Foundation. Throughout her 14 years there, she supported every aspect of the organization and served in various leadership roles. She was the founder and Executive Director of Zebra Crossings, a Dover, NH-based nonprofit supporting youth with chronic medical conditions and their families. Now she is looking forward to sharing her nonprofit management skills to support the mission of Animal Welfare Society. In her free time she enjoys woodworking and hiking with her golden retriever Luca.
Cam Raymond, Director of Operations
Starting at Director of Operations earlier this spring, Cam Raymond brings with him eight years of experience in animal health. In his role, he will oversee the Community Veterinary Clinic, Adoption Center, Canine Training and animal services team.
“Drawing from my experience in veterinary medicine and companion animal diagnostics, I was attracted to AWS because of its unique mission and commitment to supporting the local community. With my background, I can contribute to the organization’s growth, support our staff and volunteers, and help serve our community members and clients.”
Prior to his role at AWS, he served in various capacities at Rarebreed Veterinary Partners in Portland, Maine, most recently as Director of Finance. Cam’s career also includes experience with IDEXX Laboratories, where he worked on the in-house diagnostic line of business. With a deep passion for animal health, Cam is eager to leverage his industry knowledge to support AWS’ mission. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing and spending quality time with his family.
Allie McCarthy, Community Engagement Manager
Rounding out AWS’ recent hires is Allie McCarthy as Community Engagement Manager. Allie brings nearly ten years of animal welfare experience to her role, most recently as a volunteer program manager at a central Maine animal shelter. At AWS, Allie will maintain the volunteer program, attend community events, engage with area schools and libraries and support AWS’ youth programming on-site and in the community.
“Our new leadership team members are a welcomed addition as AWS continues to develop the programs and services needed by the pets and the people in our community. We’re excited for our future and are ready to keep growing.”
Abigail Smith, AWS Executive Director
