Mindy Hutcheson - Executive Director
As the Executive Director of C.A.R.E., I lead our organization’s strategic vision with a central focus on securing funding for a new shelter and guiding the project through to completion. My background as a pharmacy owner gave me a strong foundation in business leadership, community engagement, and day‑to‑day operational management.
I’ve been part of C.A.R.E. since its earliest days, serving as the first board secretary and later stepping into roles in social media, foster coordination, and hands‑on animal care. Even in my expanded leadership role, I continue to manage our social media and work at the shelter every Wednesday so I stay closely connected to our animals, our staff, and our volunteers.
I’ve fostered more than 100 animals over the years, built strong community partnerships, and remain deeply committed to creating sustainable, humane solutions for pets in need. My work with C.A.R.E. is both a calling and a privilege.
Candice Gray - Director of Operations
Hi there! I’m Candice, the Director here at C.A.R.E. Originally from Florida, I made the move to my dream state of Tennessee to follow what has always been my true calling helping animals. Every day, I have the incredible privilege of coming to work and giving my time, heart, and everything I have to animals who need someone to believe in them. For me, this isn’t just a job it’s a purpose. I believe every animal deserves to feel safe, loved, and valued, regardless of where they came from or what they’ve been through. We may not be able to save them all, but we can try—and I believe every single one is worth trying for. Being able to watch a scared animal begin to trust, see their personality shine, and eventually walk out our doors into a loving forever home is one of the greatest rewards I could ever ask for. I’m incredibly proud to be part of the C.A.R.E. family and honored to spend my days fighting for the animals who need us most.
Eve
My name is Eve, and I serve as Lead Kennel Technician, Medical Technician, and Administrator at C.A.R.E. Animal Shelter. I have the honor of working directly with the cats and dogs I care so deeply about every day. With hands-on experience across clinical, operational, and administrative departments, I’ve gained a complete understanding of both animal welfare and shelter management. My primary focus is ensuring every cat and dog receives exceptional medical treatment, compassionate care, and the support they need to transition into the loving, permanent homes they deserve. I truly love working with all our babies.
Robin
My name is Robin, and I’ve been a dedicated member of the C.A.R.E. team since 2021. I wear many hats — from kennel technician and medical support to coordinating our foster network — all to ensure every animal receives the highest level of care. I have a special passion for fostering neonates, providing round‑the‑clock attention to vulnerable newborns who need it most.
Driven by a deep belief in being a voice for the voiceless, my work here inspired me to return to school to further my education in animal care.
Peter
Peter has been a dedicated Kennel Technician at C.A.R.E. since 2023. A retired U.S. Vietnam Veteran, he discovered a new mission after his military service: caring for animals with patience, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Every day, he brings a gentle heart and steady presence to our dogs, making sure they feel safe, loved, and understood.
Meet Tiffany, one of our dedicated Kennel Technicians here at C.A.R.E.!
Tiffany’s love for animals began at a young age and has only grown stronger over the years. She brings compassion, dedication, and a caring heart to her work every day. Tiffany takes pride in making sure every animal in her care feels safe, comfortable, and loved while waiting for their forever home. We are so grateful to have her as part of the C.A.R.E. family!
Tiffany
Elizabeth
My name is Elizabeth, and I C.A.R.E. because of my deep love for animals and my passion for helping those in need. Working with animals has inspired me to continue growing both personally and professionally. To further my ability to make a difference, I returned to school to earn my degree so I can better help animals in need and expand my knowledge in animal care and welfare. My long-term goal is to continue building my career and one day possibly open my own animal shelter to provide love, safety, and care to animals who need a second chance. At home, I am a proud dog mom to four dogs who are not just pets — they are my kids and an important part of my family. Through my experience at Companion Animal Rescue Education C.A.R.E. , I have not only found amazing coworkers but also a family that shares the same passion for helping animals, along with many furry friends who make every day meaningful. My journey is driven by compassion, dedication, and a commitment to creating a better future for animals in need.
I retired 2 years ago after many years of secretarial and administrative work, as well as owning a small business for 10 years. I've always had pets and currently share my home with 2 dogs, 4 rescue cats, a parrot, and a husband. While driving past CARE in late May 2025, I saw they were looking for a Cat kennel tech and stopped to fill out an application and was hired. (Now I can't leave. :joy:) While cleaning their kennels and looking after them, I enjoy getting to know the unique personalities of the cats and kittens, and particularly like working with the more difficult ones. It's a wonderful feeling when they start to trust us and learn they're safe.
Linda
Cassie
Hiya! I’m Cassie — a foster turned administrative assistant as of spring 2026. I’ve spent my whole life raising, loving, and caring for animals, and now I’m lucky enough to call it my career.
In 2022, an accident left me unable to walk unassisted, and for a while I didn’t think I’d ever get back to doing what I loved. Then I started volunteering at C.A.R.E., where I found a community that welcomed me without ever seeing my disability first. They gave me the chance to help the animals I adore and, in the process, helped me find myself again.
