Monroe County Friends of Animals (MCFA)

Cheryl Ulmer is the President of Monroe County Friends of Animals, having joined the organization in 2021 to assist with the annual gala and the SNAP program. Her passion for dog and cat rescue spans many years and multiple states, where she has worked to improve the lives of stray animals. Cheryl enjoys outdoor adventures like kayaking and hiking, and she shares her love of nature with her husband and their beloved dogs, Chloe and Roger. A world traveler who has visited six continents, Cheryl is currently planning a trip to Africa. She values the hard work of MCFA’s volunteers, crediting them for the organization's success.

Kari Fisher-Gibson joined the Monroe County Friends of Animals board in the spring of 2024, bringing her lifelong love of animals and dedication to supporting MCFA’s mission. Retired from a career in K-12 education, Kari now enjoys creative hobbies like working with clay, drawing, and painting. Her home is filled with rescued pets, including three indoor cats, two barn cats with their own temperature-controlled shelter, and 20 chickens. Known as a “get ‘er done gal,” Kari is a natural problem-solver who values the hard work and commitment of MCFA’s volunteers. Recently, she’s taken up drum lessons, embracing new challenges while continuing to enjoy working with the people and animals of MCFA. 

 Edward Roeber, a committed board member of Monroe County Friends of Animals since 2011, served as MCFA’s president from 2014 to 2016. Leveraging his nonprofit healthcare administration background, Ed contributes expertise in business planning and finance to support MCFA’s mission. He was instrumental in developing the new shelter in Madisonville and personally dedicated six years to transporting animals to find new homes across cities and states. Ed’s family has adopted three dogs from MCFA, including Sonny and Cher, deepening his connection to the organization. Outside of his work with MCFA, he enjoys watching sports, especially football, basketball, and golf, and traveling. He finds fulfillment in working alongside the dedicated MCFA board. 

Sabrina Huffstetler is the Board Secretary of Monroe County Friends of Animals and has been volunteering for approximately three years, serving on the Board for 1.5 years. As a Family Nurse Practitioner working in Monroe County, she was inspired to help after seeing so many animals in need during her travels. Sabrina finds joy in seeing animals adopted into loving homes and is deeply moved by stories of how they enrich the lives of their new families. A proud moment for her was being part of the team that opened the new animal center and walking Ms. Polly, the shelter's longest resident, into the facility on opening day. Along with her passion for animal rescue, Sabrina has discovered a hidden talent in photography, capturing the beauty and spirit of the animals in MCFA's care.

Deborah Smith has been an active member of Monroe County Friends of Animals since 2007, bringing her lifelong passion for helping those who cannot help themselves to the organization. Now retired, she stays engaged in her community and church, while enjoying leisure activities like paddle boarding. Deborah is proud to have been part of the team that helped bring the Eastbourne Animal Center to life. She has adopted two senior cats, JJ and Dixie, through MCFA’s Second Chance Pals program. Known for her strong organizational skills and commitment, Deborah continues to make a meaningful impact in animal welfare alongside her fellow board members. 

Thomas Smith, a board member of Monroe County Friends of Animals since 2020, brings a deep love for animals and a passion for MCFA’s mission. At home, he cares for two dogs and two cats, strengthening his personal commitment to animal welfare. Tom was a vital part of the building committee, helping bring the new animal center to completion—a goal he’s particularly proud of achieving. When not volunteering, Tom enjoys motorcycles and the satisfaction that comes from setting and reaching meaningful goals, making him a dedicated and purposeful member of MCFA’s team. 

Marni Sorrick has been a dedicated general board member with Monroe County Friends of Animals since 2017. As the manager of MCFA’s thrift store, she led a team of volunteers to boost annual revenue from $295,000 in 2021 to an impressive $360,000. Known for her no-nonsense approach and ability to tackle any challenge, Marni is the go-to person for special projects. Outside of work, she enjoys caring for her two dogs, two cats, and seven geese and loves crafting—whether it’s knitting, quilting, or sewing. Marni treasures the friendships she’s made through her involvement with MCFA.