Impact

Kind community.

In 2010, I co-founded Kingston Animal Rescue (KAR), a registered charity and no-kill animal rescue operating in Kingston, Ontario.  

Alison, Founder of Kind Strategy, with her black cat, Kevin Bacon, adopted from Kingston Animal Rescue.

Alison with her cat, Kevin Bacon, adopted from Kingston Animal Rescue.

Using a network of foster homes, KAR takes in last-chance animals—animals that are at high risk of euthanasia or those that would otherwise be at risk without intervention.

This includes stray animals and those living in a shelter. KAR also assists in emergency rescues, including animals removed from neglectful situations.

As a no-kill rescue, animals stay in foster homes until they are adopted.

KAR works to educate the public about the proper care and treatment of animals, as well as the pet overpopulation crisis and the importance of spay/neuter and adoption.  

In 2012–13, KAR championed the creation of a by-law to ban the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in Kingston pet stores.  

After an intense year of council meetings, petitioning, and public outreach, a by-law that restricts the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in Kingston pet stores to only shelter and/or rescue animals came into effect on August 14, 2013. Kingston has one of the most progressive pet store by-laws in the country.  

KAR employs one full-time rescue coordinator who is supported by many dedicated volunteers, from the board of directors to foster homes, drivers and event volunteers.  

A portion of every engagement with Kind Strategy supports community-based animal welfare through Kingston Animal Rescue.  

Learn more about KAR

Impact

Other community engagements.

  • Kingston Canadian Film Festival Board of Directors, 2013–present
  • City Nation Place, Advisory Group & Award Jury, 2024–2025
  • Kingston’s Advocates for Responsible Pet Ownership, 2016–2019
  • Queen’s Campus Community Appeal, 2010–2011
  • Kingston Arts Council Board of Directors, 2005–2009