A Merger Built on Shared Values: Two Flagstaff Animal Welfare Pillars Unite to Form a Stronger Future
A new chapter for animal welfare in Northern Arizona begins today. Coconino Humane Association (CHA), a community cornerstone since 1955, and High Country Humane (HCH) are proud to announce a collaborative merge
This thoughtful unification brings together seven decades of compassion and community service to create a more resilient, innovative, and impactful resource for animals and the people who love them. The merger process, which begins immediately and will be completed in phases, was developed through months of collaborative planning by a special joint committee.
“For decades, our two organizations have worked side-by-side with the same goal: to protect and advocate for animals in need,” said Chrystal Redding, Board President of Coconino Humane Association. “While the economic landscape for nonprofits has changed, our primary reason for engaging High Country Humane to initiate this merge remains the mission. This unified approach provides us the financial resilience to honor CHA’s 70-year legacy while ensuring every animal has the best possible chance at a healthy, happy life.”
Kim Ott, Board Chair of High Country Humane, added: “This moment is about possibility. By aligning our strengths, we can expand programs, reach more families, and provide even greater support to our community. Flagstaff and Coconino County deserve a unified, forward-thinking approach to animal welfare, and we’re honored to build that future together.”
The transition was made possible through the expert guidance of T. Paul Thomas and Amanda Black of NAU’s T. Paul Thomas Center for Nonprofit Entrepreneurship, along with legal support from Whitney Cunningham at Aspey, Watkins & Diesel (AWD) Law.
Community Leaders Voice Support
Mayor Becky Daggett: “Flagstaff is a community that cares deeply for animals and their welfare. I applaud these two organizations for the foresight to create increased financial and space sustainability. Streamlining services and strengthening our local animal safety net is a win for our residents and furry buddies alike.”
Patrice Horstman, Coconino County Board of Supervisors, District 1: “This merger represents the best of Coconino County—collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to service. We are proud to support a unified High Country Humane as they expand their capacity to serve the entire region.”
T. Paul Thomas, NAU’s T. Paul Thomas Center for Nonprofit Entrepreneurship: “By combining operations, staff expertise, and volunteer networks, this merger creates a central hub for regional animal care. This was a deeply collaborative process, designed to maximize donor support and increase the impact of every dollar spent on life-saving programs.”
Whitney Cunningham, Partner at Aspey, Watkins & Diesel (AWD): “It has been a privilege to facilitate the legal framework for this unification. This merger wasn’t just about paperwork; it was a deliberate, thoughtful effort by both boards to build a sustainable model of care that will serve Coconino County for decades to come.”
About High Country Humane
High Country Humane is our region’s unified humane organization, dedicated to protecting animals, supporting families, and strengthening the bond between people and pets. Through adoption, medical care, community programs, and advocacy, the organization works to ensure that every animal has the chance to thrive.