Staff Reports | Community Updates
Heidi’s Village, a Phoenix-based nonprofit that supports the animal welfare community, has appointed three new members to its Board of Directors.
The appointments bring together leaders with backgrounds in public service, nonprofit leadership and community engagement, according to a press release.
The new board members are Michael Hughes, Nikki Amberg and Michael De Cou, each bringing experience that aligns with the organization’s mission.
Michael Hughes, a retired professional formerly affiliated with A New Leaf, brings experience in community service and nonprofit leadership. His previous involvement includes service with the Mesa School Board, Mesa Arts Academy, ASU Lodestar and the East Valley Boys & Girls Club. Mr. Hughes said his commitment to serving others and helping those in need motivated his decision to join the board.
Nikki Amberg, a Tempe City Council member, brings experience in public policy, nonprofit leadership and community advocacy. A longtime resident of the Tempe area, Ms. Amberg has been involved in local policy, economic development, housing and infrastructure initiatives while supporting nonprofit organizations and serving on multiple boards. A lifelong animal lover, she grew up around animals and currently has five dogs.
Michael De Cou, a program management professional, contributes experience in military service, international program management and nonprofit volunteerism. His volunteer work includes involvement with the International Rescue Committee and The Nature Conservancy in Arizona, along with leadership roles in program planning and execution.
Mr. De Cou and his family selected Heidi’s Village as a beneficiary of their legacy trust, reflecting their support for the organization’s mission. Inspired by the nonprofit’s work, the family also began fostering kittens, and his wife, Deanna, volunteers at Heidi’s Village on a weekly basis.
Collectively, the new board members bring experience in governance, fundraising, public policy, program management and strategic planning to support the organization’s continued growth and community impact.
“We are thrilled to welcome this accomplished group of leaders to our Board of Directors,” Heidi’s Village Executive Director Annet Ruiter said. “Their combined experience, dedication to service and commitment to strengthening our community will play an essential role in advancing our mission and expanding the impact we can make for those we serve.”
The appointments reflect Heidi’s Village’s ongoing effort to build a diverse and experienced governing body that can support the organization’s long-term strategic goals while continuing to provide services throughout the Phoenix area.
Heidi’s Village is at 600 N. 40th St. in Phoenix.
