About Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter

Our Story

Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter (FMAS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the people who care about them. Operating the Manchester Animal Shelter at 490 Dunbarton Road in Manchester, New Hampshire, the organization provides adoption services, community programs, and compassionate care for animals in need.



Since its founding in 1996, FMAS has helped connect thousands of animals with new homes while supporting pet owners through programs that strengthen the relationship between people and their pets.

A small, light-colored building with a maroon door, a brick walkway, and a covered front porch supported by white pillars.

Our Mission

The mission of Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter is to provide compassionate care, shelter, and placement for animals while promoting responsible pet ownership throughout the community.

This work includes:

  • Finding permanent homes for adoptable animals
  • Supporting foster care for animals needing temporary placement
  • Providing spay and neuter programs that help prevent animal homelessness
  • Offering pet assistance programs that help families keep their pets


Through these efforts, the organization works to create a safer and more humane community for animals across the Manchester region.

Support Our Mission

Impact in the Community

Over the years, Manchester Animal Shelter has helped provide care and homes for more than 25,000 animals.


In addition to adoption services, the organization supports the community through programs such as:

  • Foster care programs for animals awaiting adoption
  • Spay and neuter initiatives that help reduce unwanted litters
  • Pet assistance programs designed to help families keep their pets
  • Community outreach and education related to responsible pet ownership

Meet the Shelter Team

The work of Manchester Animal Shelter is made possible by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who care deeply about animal welfare and community service.

Jodi Leclerc

Jodi Leclerc

Feline and Small Animal Coordinator

Email Jodi
Kit Walter

Kit Walter

Administrative Assistant

Sarah Antis

Sarah Antis

Feline Care Technician

Miles Johnstone

Miles Johnstone

Canine Technician

Governance and Leadership

Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter is guided by a Board of Directors responsible for overseeing the organization’s mission, strategy, and long-term sustainability.


The board works alongside shelter leadership to ensure responsible governance, financial oversight, and continued support for the animals and community served by the shelter.

Officers

Board President: 

John DeWispelaere, Attorney, McLane Middleton


Board Vice President: 

TBD


Board Secretary: 

Kaitlyn Choi, Embrace Pet Insurance


Board Treasurer: 

Joseph Kenney, Chief Lending Office, BankProv


Directors

Ashley Goodwin, Chief of Staff, York IE

Gia Bonilla, Director of Partnerships, Gate City Casino

Jodie Nazaka, Economic Development Director, City of Manchester

Judie Brown, Animal Lover

Patrick Mills, Owner Bonfire Country Bar

Board Member Emeritus – Cassandra Gatsas

Part of the Manchester, NH Community

Manchester Animal Shelter serves residents throughout Manchester, New Hampshire and the surrounding region, providing adoption services, community programs, and resources that support animals and their families.


The shelter operates at:

Manchester Animal Shelter
490 Dunbarton Rd
Manchester, NH 03102


Support from adopters, volunteers, and donors helps ensure that animals arriving at the shelter receive care, safety, and the opportunity to find new homes.