Meet a Kids In Crisis Volunteer Supporting Vulnerable Children
Kirstin Mende is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lucky Dog Refuge in Stamford. She is also part of the Kids In Crisis volunteer family. Here is her story.
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up in Darien, CT, with my parents and an older brother. Recently, I moved back during COVID-19 to help establish Lucky Dog Refuge, an animal rescue in Stamford, CT, with my family. Within our family, we have seven dogs, many of whom came from severe circumstances that inspired us to start our own charity. Since our launch in 2020, we’ve saved the lives of over 900 dogs, rehabilitating them and finding them loving homes.
I’m deeply committed to helping vulnerable populations, especially children, animals, and seniors, offering them the support and voice they need. In my free time, I love to read. My perfect day involves staying at home with my dogs, a cup of tea or coffee, and a great book.
What is Lucky-Paw-Palooza?
Lucky-Paw-Palooza is Lucky Dog Refuge’s annual fundraising festival,
held every October at Mill River Park. It’s a family- and pet-frie
ndly event with adoptable animals, food trucks, live music, performances, local vendors, and activities for kids. This year, for the first time, we’re expanding it to two days to offer a full weekend of fun. Admission benefits both Lucky Dog Refuge and Mill River Park’s dog park improvements.
Join Kirstin’s 3rd annual fundraising festival for the dogs! Proceeds will benefit Lucky Dog Refuge and improvements to Stamford’s Mill River Park’s dog park. Click for more information.
How did you learn about Kids In Crisis?
I learned about Kids In Crisis through my best friend, Amber Boissonneault, who is also a Kids In Crisis volunteer. We met in graduate school and share a passion for charitable efforts. Amber always spoke so passionately about her work with Kids In Crisis, so I knew it was a top-notch organization. When she told me more about it, I immediately wanted to get involved.
What inspired you to become a Kids In Crisis volunteer supporting vulnerable children?
Children are among our most vulnerable populations, and I’ve always felt strongly about giving them the care and attention they need. You don’t have to be a parent to care about the welfare of children. There’s a strong overlap in empathy between people who love animals and those who work to protect children – they share the desire to help those who cannot help themselves.
Working with Kids In Crisis was an easy decision. I’ve been involved in youth advocacy since my early adult life, starting with my job in the policy office for then-First Lady Laura Bush. We focused on initiatives like literacy, early childhood development, and youth well-being. Twenty years later, volunteering for Kids In Crisis felt like a natural next step.
What part of Kids In Crisis’ mission stands out to you the most?
The mental health support that Kids In Crisis offers youth is particularly meaningful to me. When I was a child, mental health was not discussed much, and many struggles went undiagnosed. Today, children can access counseling earlier in life, but often the help they need is delayed by long waitlists. That’s why Kids In Crisis’ real-time services, both in and out of schools, are so crucial.
I feel especially grateful that I didn’t grow up with the pressures of social media, which amplifies the natural challenges of childhood. Kids today need professional support more than ever, and I’m proud to be a Kids In Crisis volunteer supporting vulnerable children.
What has been your most memorable moment with Kids In Crisis?
Touring the Kids In Crisis facility was a powerful experience. It’s a safe, welcoming space for children who have nowhere else to go. Seeing firsthand how Kids In Crisis provides refuge during a child’s most vulnerable moments was incredibly inspiring. Their work ensures that these turning points in children’s lives lead to positive outcomes.
What should people know about Kids In Crisis?
It’s important to understand that Kids In Crisis helps ALL children, regardless of background, race, religion, or socioeconomic status. Mental health and sensory challenges affect children everywhere, and any child can be vulnerable to bullying or other issues. Kids need a safe space to share their struggles, and Kids In Crisis provides that.
As a Kids In Crisis volunteer supporting vulnerable children, I’ve seen how vital their services are. Their programs give children the help they need when they need it most, making a lasting difference in their lives.
