The Root of Our Rescue
As a young girl, around 7-9 years old, I lived in a wooded area where my family would take our garbage to a nearby dump site. One day, amidst the trash, we heard puppies crying. We in fact did find a litter of tiny pups that had been dumped and eventually managed to find homes for all but one pup, which I kept and named Black Jack. He became my constant companion in the woods for about nearly two years. Towards the end of that time, my mom had met someone and decided that we would move to the city. As a young child, she persuaded me that Black Jack did "not like" the city and would prefer to stay in the countryside. About a week later, I found out from a family friend that Black Jack had been spotted running down one of the only highways in the countryside and was never placed into a new home after we had moved. My heart had fell to my stomach and I was so sad and scared for him. He was lost and abandoned and I wished I could have helped him. This heartbreaking mark in my life led me to dedicate my time to rescuing neglected animals like Black Jack. I hope to honor his memory by saving as many animals as I can and advocating for no-kill shelters so that every dog receives a loving and forever home, no matter how long it takes for them to find one. Black Jack’s life is and was not in vain. I will serve his memory and loving companionship that I was blessed to have with him, by enforcing our mission to save animals in need one day at a time.
Sincerely, Andrea Straub, Founder.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Mission
Vision Statement
Our vision is a world where no healthy animal is euthanized due to lack of space. We are dedicated to educating the public about the heartbreaking reality in our city shelters, encouraging responsible pet ownership, and advocating for stronger animal protection laws. We believe that animals deserve a voice—and that togeth
Vision Statement
Our vision is a world where no healthy animal is euthanized due to lack of space. We are dedicated to educating the public about the heartbreaking reality in our city shelters, encouraging responsible pet ownership, and advocating for stronger animal protection laws. We believe that animals deserve a voice—and that together, we can create a future where every pet is safe, valued, and loved.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
At A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery Inc., we are dedicated to saving urgent dogs from euthanasia lists in city shelters—primarily in California and Florida. We provide each rescued animal with safety, veterinary care, and a nurturing foster environment until they find a loving, forever home. Our mission is rooted in the belie
At A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery Inc., we are dedicated to saving urgent dogs from euthanasia lists in city shelters—primarily in California and Florida. We provide each rescued animal with safety, veterinary care, and a nurturing foster environment until they find a loving, forever home. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every animal life matters and deserves the chance to know love, security, and compassion.
Our Impact
Our Mission
Our Impact
Each year, approximately 920,000 animals are killed in shelters across the United States. It seems as if this number never decreases, but only increases. Our goal is to educate the public on this crisis in our country and to make adoptions easy and accessible for future adopters looking to save a life! We also strive to become trusted res
Each year, approximately 920,000 animals are killed in shelters across the United States. It seems as if this number never decreases, but only increases. Our goal is to educate the public on this crisis in our country and to make adoptions easy and accessible for future adopters looking to save a life! We also strive to become trusted rescue partners of numerous shelters throughout the country to help ease this crisis and make a difference on each new life saved!
Meet Our Dynamic Board Members
Andrea R. Straub – Founder & President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter - Esq. Vice President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter - Esq. Vice President
Andrea Straub founded A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery Inc. in December 2023 after witnessing the heartbreaking reality of dogs being euthanized in overcrowded city shelters. Determined to make a difference, she sprang into action—and hasn’t looked back.
With a successful background in real estate and a lifelong passion for a
Andrea Straub founded A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery Inc. in December 2023 after witnessing the heartbreaking reality of dogs being euthanized in overcrowded city shelters. Determined to make a difference, she sprang into action—and hasn’t looked back.
With a successful background in real estate and a lifelong passion for animals, Andrea has combined business savvy with compassion to lead the rescue's growth and impact. In 2024 alone, she and her dedicated team helped save over 100 dogs from euthanasia lists in California and Florida.
Andrea remains steadfast in her mission to rescue urgent animals, raise awareness, and advocate for stronger protections. Her vision for the future is bold: no healthy animal should be killed for lack of space, and every dog deserves a second chance at life.
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter - Esq. Vice President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter - Esq. Vice President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter - Esq. Vice President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter, Esq. – Vice President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter brings a strong blend of legal expertise and hands-on rescue experience to her role as Vice President. As an attorney, Chelsea has a background in document review and drafting, negotiation, and risk evaluation—skills that add essential structure and strategic insight to
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter, Esq. – Vice President
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter brings a strong blend of legal expertise and hands-on rescue experience to her role as Vice President. As an attorney, Chelsea has a background in document review and drafting, negotiation, and risk evaluation—skills that add essential structure and strategic insight to the board’s work.
In addition to her legal career, Chelsea has spent years volunteering with animal rescues in the San Diego area, including work with the Humane Society. Her experience includes managing social media outreach, coordinating foster placements, and organizing transport efforts—especially for at-risk dogs from high-kill shelters like Apple Valley.
Chelsea is passionate about deepening her impact in animal welfare. Joining the board is part of her commitment to learning the inner workings of nonprofit and rescue operations, gaining new skills, and becoming an even stronger advocate for animals in need. She’s also excited to build community and connections with others who share her mission.
With a sharp legal mind, a compassionate heart, and a drive to help animals in meaningful ways, Chelsea is a vital part of the leadership at A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery Inc.
Kimberly Leyerly - Secretary
Chelsea Yamabe Trotter - Esq. Vice President
Gabriela Hernandez - Treasurer
Kimberly Leyerly is an experienced educator and passionate animal advocate, serving as Secretary on the Board of Directors for A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery, Inc. With a lifelong commitment to helping others learn and grow, she brings strong organizational skills, compassion, and a team-oriented mindset to her role. Kimber
Kimberly Leyerly is an experienced educator and passionate animal advocate, serving as Secretary on the Board of Directors for A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery, Inc. With a lifelong commitment to helping others learn and grow, she brings strong organizational skills, compassion, and a team-oriented mindset to her role. Kimberly is especially dedicated to giving second chances to dogs who have been let down by humans, believing every dog deserves a fresh start and a loving home.
Why I Serve:
“As an educator, I’ve always believed in the power of second chances — and that applies to animals too. I want to do more than foster. Being on the board gives me the opportunity to help the rescue grow and succeed while working with a team toward our shared mission of advancing animal welfare.”
Gabriela Hernandez - Treasurer
Brooke Smith-Lubensky -Fundraiser Outreach Coordinator Board Of Directors
Gabriela Hernandez - Treasurer
Gabriela Hernandez brings a strong background in large-scale apartment property management, fundraising, and legal coordination to her role as Treasurer on the Board of Directors. With years of experience overseeing operations, managing budgets, and building community partnerships, Gabriela provides valuable financial oversight and strate
Gabriela Hernandez brings a strong background in large-scale apartment property management, fundraising, and legal coordination to her role as Treasurer on the Board of Directors. With years of experience overseeing operations, managing budgets, and building community partnerships, Gabriela provides valuable financial oversight and strategic insight to help ensure the rescue’s long-term success.
Why I Serve:
“I want to help the rescue thrive by using my skills to find loving homes for the dogs we save. I believe I bring a strong overall contribution to the mission, and I’m proud to be part of a team dedicated to giving these animals a second chance.”
Jack Grimm - Outreach Coordinator, Board of Directors
Brooke Smith-Lubensky -Fundraiser Outreach Coordinator Board Of Directors
Brooke Smith-Lubensky -Fundraiser Outreach Coordinator Board Of Directors
A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery, Inc.
Jack Grimm is an expert in web and graphic design, marketing, and public outreach, serving as Outreach Coordinator on the Board of Directors. He brings a powerful combination of creative and strategic skills, along with specialized experience in dog training focused on service and communi
A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery, Inc.
Jack Grimm is an expert in web and graphic design, marketing, and public outreach, serving as Outreach Coordinator on the Board of Directors. He brings a powerful combination of creative and strategic skills, along with specialized experience in dog training focused on service and communication. Jack is also passionate about targeted activism, government engagement, and educating the public on animal welfare issues.
Why I Serve:
“I’m committed to saving animals and raising public awareness about animal rights. Through outreach and education, I aim to protect the environment from the consequences of stray, unaltered, and unvaccinated pets — and ultimately, to improve outcomes for both pets and people.”
Brooke Smith-Lubensky -Fundraiser Outreach Coordinator Board Of Directors
Brooke Smith-Lubensky -Fundraiser Outreach Coordinator Board Of Directors
Brooke Smith-Lubensky -Fundraiser Outreach Coordinator Board Of Directors
A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery, Inc.
Brooke Smith is a passionate animal advocate with a strong background in community outreach and public engagement. As a television actress, Brooke uses her platform to raise awareness for animal welfare and has been a tireless supporter of rescue organizations. She has played a vital role
A Dog Named Black Jack Animal Rescue Recovery, Inc.
Brooke Smith is a passionate animal advocate with a strong background in community outreach and public engagement. As a television actress, Brooke uses her platform to raise awareness for animal welfare and has been a tireless supporter of rescue organizations. She has played a vital role in helping countless dogs by leveraging her network to find fosters, build connections, and support fundraising efforts.
Her dedication to making a difference extends far beyond the screen—Brooke is deeply committed to giving every dog a second chance and to amplifying the mission of the rescue through visibility, storytelling, and action.
Why I Serve:
“I believe every dog deserves love, safety, and a home. I’m honored to use my voice and connections to bring attention to the needs of these precious pets—and to help build a future where more lives are saved and more hearts are healed.”
