The Arizona Pet Project launches Arizona Coalition for People and Pets Subsidiary

Coalition formed to support the connection and collaboration of organizations focused on the intersection of human and animal welfare

Contributed Article

PHOENIX – In a move to build healthier communities through the human-animal bond and with a mission to keep pets with their human companions, The Arizona Pet Project (AZPP) proudly announces the launch of its brand-new subsidiary nonprofit: The Arizona Coalition for People and Pets.

This announcement continues a string of advancements and expansions for AZPP. In 2023, thanks to grant support from the Arizona Governor’s Office, the organization expanded its services throughout the state. In 2024, it launched a first-of-its-kind partnership with UMOM New Day Centers to host onsite services at the nonprofit. The launch of the Coalition was a logical next step for The Arizona Pet Project, as homelessness continues to rise, and with it, the support necessary for animal and human services.

“For the past 12 years, we’ve worked side by side with nonprofits, government agencies, and legislators across Arizona,” said Leanna Taylor, CEO of The Arizona Pet Project. “One thing has become clear: while our impact is meaningful, the need in our community is far greater than any one organization can meet alone. This Coalition will extend the reach of our agency by engaging additional human and animal welfare organizations throughout our state to remove the barriers pet families face in accessing services and assistance in times of crisis.”

The Arizona Coalition for People and Pets is a collaborative hub that unites advocates, service providers, and community leaders committed to the well-being of both people and pets. The Coalition is rooted in the belief that the human-animal bond is powerful, and preserving it requires systemic change and collective action.

The Coalition will serve as a convening force and a catalyst for change through:

• Cross-sector collaboration to close the gap between human and animal welfare services.
• Education and resource-sharing, offering toolkits, webinars, policy briefs, and expert-led learning sessions to promote pet-inclusive practices.
• Policy and systems advocacy aimed at removing barriers and building long-term solutions for individuals and families in crisis who have pets.

At its core, the Coalition strives to ensure no one in Arizona is forced to choose between basic needs, like food, shelter, or healthcare, and their beloved animals, often their sole source of emotional support and companionship. A recent survey conducted by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) found that 84% of pet owners reported their pets have a mostly positive impact on their mental health, with companionship and stress and anxiety reduction ranking above 62%. And during times of crisis, this connection can be amplified.

Kathy Mock, current Manager of Strategic Partnerships at The Arizona Pet Project, will assume the role of Coalition Lead. With a deep law, healthcare, policy, and coalition-building background, Kathy is uniquely positioned to lead this ambitious new initiative.

“We’re thrilled to have Kathy step into this role,” said Taylor. “Her vision, experience, and relentless dedication make her the ideal leader to shape the future of this coalition.”

As the Coalition kicks off its inaugural year, The Arizona Pet Project will be looking for new member organizations, community partners, and advocates to further their mission. Current members of the coalition are the Arizona Animal Welfare League and Lost Our Home. To learn more about the Arizona Coalition for People and Pets, visit www.azforpeopleandpets.org.

About The Arizona Pet Project

The Arizona Pet Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is creating a healthier and safer community for all people and pets by providing resources and services that keep families together in times of hardship and crisis.

In 2023, thanks to a grant from the State of Arizona, The Arizona Pet Project expanded outside of Maricopa County and now aids families across our great state.