Our Mission

A Cat's Life Rescue, a 501(c)(3) organization, exists to provide a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program, adoptions, and medical care for cats, as well as education programs to the public.

Board of Directors

  • Amy Bailer (Secretary)

  • Alex Carolan (Vice-Chair)

  • Priya Konings (Chair)

  • Karina Rigel (Treasurer)

  • Solomon Brown

  • Jacob Geers

  • Linnea Gomez

  • Kate Gordon

  • Jaymie Peterson

  • Ashley Ray

  • Melissa Schweisguth

Leadership Team

Note that ACLR does not have any paid employees. It is entirely run by volunteers, including the leadership team highlighted below, a team of dedicated coordinators, and dozens of foster caregivers and trappers. 

Executive Director Niki Cochran

Longtime program director and co-founder Niki Cochran was elected Executive Director in June 2026. Niki has an impressive animal welfare background, with more than 10 years experience as program director for animal welfare organizations in the D.C. area, and an astute knowledge of the state of community cats. Niki has taken on some of the toughest medical cases over the years. She has cared for cats with eyes that have literally exploded, impossible upper respiratory infections, those who were recovering from leg amputations, and pretty much any other medical issue. 

Niki leads a team of coordinators who cover grants, adoptions, fostering, trapping, events, and communications, as well as the leadership team. In her free time she runs (and sometimes wins!) ultra-marathon races.

Operations Director Jennifer Matis

Jen is a longtime animal advocate who retired from the federal government after 24 years in 2025. She brings her experience in organizational compliance, governance, and operations to support ACLR’s mission. In her free time, Jen can be found reading or meandering the trails of Prince George’s County parks.

Financial Director Terry Roberts

Terry was named financial director in April 2026. She has 25 years of experience in a variety of roles including nonprofit fundraising and grant management. Terry oversees the ongoing financial administration and management of the organization. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her two grandsons.