Deb Bloom, our co-founder Deb Bloom, is a former VP at Christie’s Auction House and has spent the past decade as a leader in the California rescue community where she has developed immense industry knowledge, contacts, and know-how. From transporting, rescuing, and fostering dogs to running campaigns to provide at-risk animal shelters with ice and coolers in the summers, and beds, blankets, and heaters in the winters. Deb has single-handedly improved the lives of tens of thousands of dogs. Her work has been recognized by publications throughout Los Angeles, and she is an invaluable asset to at-risk dogs in California, Mexico, and beyond.
The SPAY(CE) Project: a volunteer-powered 501(c)3 non-profit, dedicated to creating impactful change in animal welfare.
“We can not rescue our way out of this. This dog overpopulation crisis asks for a different approach - one taken from 30.000ft high vs boots on the ground - and that, is the start of The SPAY(CE) Project.”
Esther Ruurda, our co-founder, originally from Amsterdam, The Netherlands, started her work in animal welfare by founding the Monkey Business Foundation in the early 2000’s to support orangutan rehabilitation and reintroduction in Indonesia. She then spent many years in non-profit marketing and fundraising, amidst moving to America and starting a family. After witnessing the struggles of LA’s shelter dogs, she applied her experience and passion to the field of the dog overpopulation crisis, where she and Deb got introduced. Together they launched The SPAY(CE) Project.
“Our dream is a future where every dog has a safe and loving home, and the cycle of overpopulation is broken through widespread awareness of the problem: #adoptdontshop and spay & neuter”
Melissa Durston, born and raised in CA, Melissa spent two decades making waves in the fashion industry before co-founding The Juice in Atwater Village. But her true calling came when she started following Deb & Esther’s mission to help dogs in underserved communities. Melissa jumped right in - donating, sharing, fundraising, and lending her heart wherever it was needed. She quickly discovered her newfound purpose: supporting struggling families with the food & supplies they need to keep their beloved pets at home, rather than having to give them up ♥️
Now, she is stepping into a vital role as Chief Food & Supplies, serving the same underserved areas where The SPAY(CE) Projects hosts the spay & neuter events. Her passion and dedication helps us make an even bigger impact, and we are so grateful to have her on board!
