Appalachian Animal Recue Center
At the Appalachian Animal Rescue Center, we are dedicated to rescuing and providing loving care for animals in need. Join us in making a difference by supporting our mission and helping animals find their forever homes.
Our Story
Welcome to the Appalachian Animal Rescue Center! Nestled in the heart of Western North Carolina, we are a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless, abandoned, and neglected animals in our community. Our mission is simple: to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need while promoting compassionate care and responsible pet ownership.
At our center, we provide a safe haven for animals of all shapes and sizes. From cozy cat rooms to outdoor runs for dogs, every space is designed to ensure comfort, care, and love while they await their forever homes. We also operate a community thrift store, where every purchase helps fund our lifesaving programs and services.
In addition to adoptions, we’re committed to addressing the root causes of animal homelessness. Our spay/neuter initiatives, educational outreach, and community support programs aim to create a brighter future for animals across the Appalachian region.
Whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer, donate, or simply learn more about our work, we’re excited to have you join our mission. Together, we can give every animal the second chance they deserve.
Come visit us and meet the animals whose lives you’re helping to change. Let’s make a difference, one paw at a time!
Meet the Board of Directors
President
Cathy Howman
Cathy knew from her first visit to Franklin, NC, at age ten that she would live there someday. After retiring from AT&T, she moved with her husband and four dogs in December 1999. Within a year, she joined the Board of Directors, serving in roles such as Secretary, Fundraising Chair, Shelter Director, and Thrift Store Director. She has been President for the past 12 years, supporting animal welfare and working with the thrift store and shelter teams.
Vice President & Publicity Chair
Mariann Hudson
Mariann, originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, moved to WNC with her husband, Don, and six cats in 2001. After retiring from the printing and graphics industry in 2019, she began volunteering at AARC and joined its Board of Directors the same year. Currently Vice President and Publicity Manager, Mariann is dedicated to supporting the well-being of animals in Macon County.
Treasurer
Joseph Brogden
My name is Joseph (Joe) Brogden, a Franklin, NC native. I'm married to lovely wife Amanda, and we have two kids, William and Emma. I've served on the board for six years, the last as treasurer, and have worked in the NC Court System for 18 years, focusing on holding animal abusers accountable. While I care for all animals, cats hold a special place in my heart.
Board Member
Christine Basey
Christine moved to WNC from Tampa, FL, in 2002, bringing her drapery business with her. She and her husband, Scott, made Macon County their forever home. As the owner of Christine's Home Decor in Otto, she has decorated many local homes. A passionate animal lover, Christine serves on the AARC board and recently created Isabel’s Collections, an upscale resale shop in her store, with proceeds benefiting Appalachian Animal Rescue Center.
Facilities Manager
Scott Basey
Scott moved from Lutz, Florida, to Macon County in 2002 and worked at Macon/Entegra Bank for 16 years. Now, he runs Christine's Home Decor with his wife, handling upholstery and window treatments. In February 2024, he joined the AARC board as Facility Director. Scott loves his four dogs and seven cats and is dedicated to protecting animals in Macon County.
Board Member
Rick Gooch
I have been a longtime lover of dogs and cats. I’ve had adopted pets since I was a child. Helping out the Appalachian Animal Rescue has been a pleasure during my retirement! My career was in healthcare and
global marketing, so I provide assistance with marketing programs and fund-raising events.
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Secretary
Gary Smith
I am a long time retired resident in Franklin and have worked for over 35 years in the banking industry in various managerial positions. My involvement with AARC is centered on fund raising efforts such as Street Fairs; Fill the Van events; and special fund raising affairs; to support our financial needs and goals. Community awareness of our mission to save animals is paramount.
Board Member
Susan Reinheimer
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Board Member
Sheryl Young
Sheryl Young joined AARC in January 2022 as a part-time cashier and became the thrift store manager in September 2024. Originally from Riverview, FL, her love for animals started on her family farm. She enjoys hiking and camping with her husband, Bobby, and their Border Collie, Cody. Sheryl loves welcoming customers—both two- and four-legged—and helping them find special treasures in the store.
Interested in Joining Our Board?
If you’re interested in joining the Board of Directors, we welcome new members! Our meetings are held once a month, typically on the third Wednesday, with locations determined monthly. If you'd like to attend a meeting, please let us know in advance. For more information, email us at boardofdirectors@appalachiananimalrescuecenter.com or submit your information here.
Our Shelter Staff
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Join Our Family
Welcome to the team! We’re more than a shelter—we’re a family dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals and our community. If you share our passion for animal welfare and want to turn your love for pets into a rewarding career, we’d love to hear from you!