About Us

The Reason Behind It All

With the broad reach of the internet comes an overabundance of information and communication. Unfortunately, the search algorithms often lead to increased visibility for larger, more popular organizations, which leaves behind those who may be smaller but still provide valuable services to help animals in the Southwestern Pennsylvania region. Our website is a resource that will bring the community back down to a smaller and more manageable size.

members of AFA pose for a photo with a vegfest mascot in a carrot costume

Who We Are

Jeni Hoyt

President and Treasurer, Board of Directors

Jeni is a longtime advocate for animals and animal rights, the vegan lifestyle, and finding ways to use technology to help bridge the gaps between those in need and those who want to help. She came up with the idea to fill this need when her friend, Maura, was struggling to find connections for volunteering at a local rescue. Jeni spends her weekdays working as a consultant in web development for nonprofits. She uses this background, the facilitation of medium sized projects and a commitment to help others, as the driver behind the creation of Act for Animals.

Maura Montini

Maura spends her weekdays as an expanded function dental assistant but her heart is happiest volunteering with animals. She volunteers at a sanctuary for special needs cats, where she gets to combine her love for animals with her desire to give back. She also manages the social media account for Act for Animals where she helps share stories, connect with the community, and spread awareness about the amazing work being done for animals in need.

Melissa Steudler

Secretary, Board of Directors

Melissa spends her weekdays as a data analyst where she has then been able to transfer her critical thinking skills to aid in the purpose driving Act for Animals and the desire to bring the broader online community back down to in-person relationships. She operates as the organizations content editor and catch all for anything needed by the team. Melissa is a reoccurring donor to help support numerous local and national organizations that support animals in need.