Donna odryna, Executive director

Donna Odryna found her calling in the non-profit world at a young age and has been managing non-profits for nearly 40 years. She has been described as a visionary community leader and coach that helps to transform non-profits into thriving, financially successful organizations. Donna is also an animal advocate, directing her lifetime of passion, experience, and devotion to dogs. She enjoys helping dogs and people find each other while providing education on responsible pet ownership and advocating for the humane treatment of dogs and cats.

She is a former Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Santa Cruz County (SCC), CEO for Leukemia Lymphoma Society of Los Angeles County and Central California, a Sr. Vice President for the American Heart Association of California and has been the CEO and Executive Director for the Medical Association in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties since 2011. She has also served on boards and/or volunteered for several non-profit organizations such as Hope’s Closet, Health Improvement Partnership, SCC Medical Reserve Corps, SCC Emergency Management Council, SPCA of SCC, 4 Paws to Love, Animal Shelter Relief, the Animal Shelter of SCC, and Toy Fox Terrier Rescue, Inc.

When asked what attracted her to BirchBark, Donna said, “I first learned of BirchBark Foundation in 2014 when I met Dr. Burtch at the Scotts Valley Art, Wine, & Beer Festival’s Dog Day Event. I remembered thinking this was such important work and I have continued to follow the growth and tremendous impact this organization makes in the lives of thousands of people and their beloved pets in the central coast region. I also thought, wouldn’t it be amazing to do this kind of work!”

Donna resides in Soquel with her husband Peter and daughter Charli, where they share their home with three dogs (pictured), two cats (Cookie and Katie), an assortment of indoor and outdoor fish, and the occasional foster dog.