CENTRAL POINT, OR ‒ In early January Dogs for Better Lives’ (DBL) Young Professionals Board (YPB) – Pacific Northwest secured Danielle Meadows as its latest member. Danielle joins an already dynamic and growing board made up of young professionals from across Oregon and Washington State. With Meadow’s appointment, this brings the YPB to twelve members.
Danielle Meadows
“The YPB is delighted to have Danielle join the board and looking forward to working with her, as we continue to grow and make our presence known in the region,” stated YPB Chair, Stacie Bianco. “The Young Professionals Board is playing a critical role in supporting DBL’s strategic plan, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. Working to further establish DBL’s presence in the region, Danielle will play an instrumental role along with her YPB colleagues, in assisting with community outreach, public engagement, and creation of signature events.”
As DBL continues to grow and expand on its mission to better the lives of those with disabilities, pairing them with an Assistance Dog, they are cultivating in tandem, the next generation of leaders in Washington’s Puget Sound and larger Pacific Northwest region, further engaging in and championing DBL’s mission and vision.
“We’re excited to have Danielle join the YPB – PNW and know with her ASL background, fundraising and community building experience, and passion for the mission, she will help to elevate DBL’s presence in the region to the next level,” stated CEO, Bryan Williams.
The DBL Young Professionals Board (YPB) is comprised of like-minded individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s that have a passion for dogs and giving back to people with disabilities in their communities. Members are engaged in helping to market the mission of DBL, participating in outreach events, as well as planning and fundraising through a variety of initiatives.
With the support and guidance of the regional Young Professionals Board in Washington’s Puget Sound, DBL will host a yet-to-be-determined signature event, engaging volunteers, and community partners. Eventually, we will have Young Professionals Boards across the country, working to support each of our planned five regions. Currently we have satellite offices in Washington, California, Arizona, and New Hampshire.
Danielle Meadows
Danielle Meadows is an American Sign Language (ASL) teacher at Wenatchee High School in Wenatchee, WA.
Danielle was born in Hood River, OR before moving to the Wenatchee Valley when she was seven years old. Growing up in the Apple Capital of the World, agriculture and farming are a big part of her life. Prior to moving to Wenatchee, her family managed a small farm and fruit stand in the Columbia River Gorge. Many of her fondest memories are about her time on the farm.
“I think YPB is a great opportunity to get involved with others who all have a similar passion and common goal,” stated Danielle Meadows. “Their mission is very special and the work that DBL does as a whole is incredible! I am excited to raise awareness and participate in community outreach, as well as share how special dogs can be.”
Danielle Meadows and her adopted Boxer, Pippa.
Danielle took ASL in high school and quickly became fascinated with the language. After getting a taste of ASL in high school, Danielle decided to venture out of state to pursue a degree in Secondary Education and a minor in ASL Studies. She graduated from Western Oregon University in June 2021 and will pursue her Master’s Degree soon.
In college, Danielle worked as a mentor for first-year students. She educated students on what it means to be holistically well and how to be the best versions of themselves. Much of what she learned in this position has helped her in her role as an educator. Her favorite part of working with her students is building relationships with them.
One of Danielle’s proudest accomplishments is receiving the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in Volunteer Service, which she earned her senior year of high school for volunteering more than 4,000 hours in her lifetime. Because of her vast involvement in service, she has extensive knowledge about fundraising, event planning, and community building.
Danielle has two dogs, which are her world! She has a senior boxer named Pippa, who her family adopted in 2014 and a French Bulldog puppy named Cooper, who keeps everyone he meets on their toes! Danielle has a soft spot for dogs and knows how valuable it is to have a pet. Danielle has always been fascinated with the work Assistance Dogs do and is excited to learn more during her time on the Young Professionals Board.
Danielle enjoys traveling and hopes to see more of the world as she gets older. In her free time, she enjoys shopping around town and snuggling her dogs.
Danielle joined the Young Professionals Board – PNW in January 2022.
In addition to further growing the Pacific Northwest chapter, DBL is actively looking to launch California/Southwest and Massachusetts/Northeast chapters. To learn more about the Young Professionals Board and/or to submit your application for consideration, please visit dogsforbetterlives.org/young-professionals-board/.
