Megan Hasenauer
Director
Megan joined Town Cats in June 2022 and now serves as the organization’s Director. With a background in nonprofit development, event management, and theater production, she brings creativity, compassion, and strategic leadership to the role. Since joining Town Cats, Megan has fostered over 35 cats and kittens, and she remains deeply committed to supporting vulnerable animals and the people who care for them. Originally from Rochester, NY, Megan is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Animal Behavior and Welfare to deepen her impact in the field. Her newest cat, Oatmeal, is in training to become a therapy cat—reflecting her belief in the powerful connection between animals and humans. Outside of work, you’ll find her playing bike polo, gardening, fostering, and adventuring with her Shiba Inu, Wolf.
Monique
Volunteer Experience Coordinator
Born and raised in Monterey County, I started rescuing neighborhood cats alongside my mother when I was 6. I just turned 38 in 2024, so that’s over 30 years of experience I am very proud to have. My children, who are my inspiration and keep me motivated every day, have been doing this with me since they were 3 and 4. As the Volunteer Experience Coordinator, I love helping and educating Bay Area families on the importance of giving back, especially in animal care and rescue. It’s amazing to be able to work with like-minded individuals who are on the same mission as you.
My arrival to Town Cats started in 2021 when they helped adopt out two litters of kittens I had rescued. I was able to be hands-on in their adoption process and make sure they all went to loving homes. It helped me to remain active within the organization which led me to join the team in Summer 2024, helping the volunteer department get up and running, building an amazing group of dedicated people who love helping out our cats!
Patty
Coming Soon!
Rico
Adoptions Coordinator
Rico‘s journey with Town Cats began in January 2024, when he joined as a kennel attendant and quickly rose to become our Adoptions Coordinator by October. From a young age, Rico was drawn to animals, and his dream of working in animal welfare finally became a reality here at Town Cats. Though this is his first professional role in the field, Rico has always had a furry companion at his side—especially his beloved one-eyed, cleft-lipped cat, Neo. Rico thrives on getting to know every quirky meow and mischievous look that walks through our doors, often capturing each cat’s charm through his photography. When not working, Rico can be found immersed in video games, sketching, or catching a movie at the movie theater.
Gracie
Community Programs Coordinator & Cat Care Specialist
Gracie joined Town Cats in the summer of 2024 and is a dedicated Community Programs Coordinator and Cat Care Specialist, where she provides everyday care for the cats at the shelter and partner locations. She also plays an active role in supporting the Community Cupboard and organizing community events, ensuring both the well-being of cats and the local community. Additionally, Gracie is the primary caregiver for Jasper, the beloved Community Programs cat, providing him with personalized care while engaging with the community.
Gracie’s passion for animal care began in high school when she earned her Vet Assisting certification through CCOC. After graduating, she further honed her skills with hands-on experience at VCA and Banfield Pet Hospitals, working as an assistant and client service coordinator. This experience, coupled with her versatile background in security, hospitality, and retail, gives her a unique blend of animal care expertise and strong customer service skills. She is passionate about animals and enjoys engaging with her community in meaningful ways.
Outside of work, Gracie enjoys hiking the Bay Area mountains and trails, creating fun experiences for her daughter, and giving TLC to any animal she encounters.
Michelle
Digital Operations and Outreach Coordinator
Michelle has been the Digital Operations and Outreach Coordinator at Town Cats since October 2024. She first volunteered as an adoption counselor with Town Cats in 2019 but could not continue due to the pandemic. In 2022, she fostered her first kitten, Pippa! Since then, she has fostered another litter of 3 boys and is currently fostering Kiera, a 6 year old timid lady who now gets a bedroom of her own!
After graduating from San Jose State University with a BS in Business Administration and Management Information Systems, she spent nearly 20 years in the tech industry. With her enthusiasm for technology, she brings expertise in business analysis, systems management, and IT solutions. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys creative hobbies like crocheting, card making and painting, where she can explore her artistic side – so she has a unique (but useful!) combination of technical knowledge and creativity!
When she’s not working, you can find her hanging out at home with her resident 10 year old cat and maybe a foster cat or two, watching shows or playing video games. She’s always ready to connect with others who share her love of all things cat!
Fun Fact: Michelle studied Ballroom Dancing for 2.5 years and won first place at a competition half-time show when the Dancing With the Stars Tour came to San Jose!