July 28, 2025
Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) is excited to welcome Heather Dayton to our Board of Directors! Heather brings deep passion, years of nonprofit experience, and a big heart for animals to her new role. From helping organize Twin Cities Veg Fest 2024 to supporting fundraising efforts and showing up at community events, she’s already made a meaningful impact.
We’re thrilled to introduce Heather so you can get to know the newest member of our compassionate community.
A Passion for Animal Advocacy
Heather’s love for animals started long before she joined CAA. Over the years, she’s worked with various animal rescue and rehabilitation organizations, helping both domesticated and wild animals find care and safety. Today, her focus is shifting toward farmed animal advocacy and spreading awareness about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle.
“Joining the board of Compassionate Action for Animals is a fantastic way to channel my passion and expertise into meaningful action,” Heather shared. “I’m excited to help promote empathy for farmed animals and encourage more people to try plant-based diets.”
Connecting Through CAA
Heather first got involved with CAA by volunteering with the Twin Cities Veg Fest planning team. The experience introduced her to a community of like-minded individuals who care deeply about animals, sustainability, and ethical food systems.
“I truly appreciate the community of passionate, forward-thinking people at CAA,” she said. “It’s inspiring to work with others who are dedicated to making the world a better place for animals.”
After her positive experience volunteering, she was eager to do more — eventually leading to her nomination and acceptance to the Board of Directors in 2024.
“I’m honored and excited to advance my role in animal advocacy,” Heather said.
Fundraising and Nonprofit Experience
Heather brings over 14 years of nonprofit experience to the board, including a strong background in fundraising and donor stewardship. She has worked at the YMCA of the North and currently serves on the development team at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation. She’s also held leadership roles on several boards and committees, including the Forest Lake YMCA Board of Directors, and more.
In her new role at CAA, Heather looks forward to helping raise funds to support our mission and programs.
“I’m proud to serve as an ambassador for CAA,” she explained. “I want to help steward current donors, seek out grants, identify new prospects, and offer creative ideas to enhance our fundraising campaigns.”
Everyday Life and Companion Animals
When she’s not working or advocating for animals, Heather spends her time with her three daughters, one granddaughter, and their beloved companion animals. She counts as friends three pit bull mixes — Daisy, Dewey, and Wilma — and a non-ridden horse named Tucker, who loves sunny days and grazing with his pasture friends.
“We consider them family,” Heather said. “Each of them has their own personality and story. They remind me every day why I do this work.”
Heather also enjoys catching live music shows around the Twin Cities and tackling creative DIY projects at home.
Favorite Vegan Foods
A big fan of chickpeas, Heather loves making chickpea salad and creative plant-based breakfasts like loaded overnight oats. She believes food is a powerful way to introduce people to animal-friendly living.
“Vegan food is delicious, nourishing, and fun to share with others,” she said. “When people realize how good it tastes, it opens the door for more conversations about animal welfare and the impact of our choices.”
Supporting CAA’s Growth
As a board member, Heather sees many opportunities to help CAA grow and evolve. She’s excited about supporting both strategic vision and operational improvements, especially through adopting new systems and processes that help staff work more efficiently.
She also believes in the power of collaboration.
“I think the board plays a key role in supporting the mission, evaluating the work, and building relationships with the community,” Heather shared. “It’s about aligning our efforts and values, and staying connected with supporters and partners.”
Looking Ahead: Twin Cities Veg Fest, Plant-Based Bike Crawl, and More!
Heather is especially excited for CAA’s upcoming events, including the Plant-Based Bike Crawl and Twin Cities Veg Fest. These events not only bring the community together — but they also help inspire thousands of people to think differently about food, animals, and the environment.
“See you at the Plant-Based Bike Crawl and Twin Cities Veg Fest!” she said with a smile.
Through these events and more, Heather hopes to help expand CAA’s reach and bring more people into the movement.
A Vision for the Animal Advocacy Movement
Heather believes the path forward for animal advocacy includes a mix of awareness, education, and systemic change.
“We need to raise public awareness, influence legislation, and advocate for ethical practices across industries that use animals,” she said. “It’s about shifting how people view animals and working toward legal and social reforms.”
She hopes to be a voice for the animals — especially farmed animals — who are often overlooked and misunderstood.
“Advocacy, education, and influencing others to live a plant-based lifestyle can lead to real, lasting change,” she added.
A Welcome Addition to the CAA Team
Heather’s experience, enthusiasm, and empathy make her a perfect fit for the CAA Board. Her passion is contagious, and her commitment to animals and community shines through in everything she does.
“We’re thrilled to have Heather on board,” said a fellow board member. “She brings valuable insight, energy, and a collaborative spirit. We know she’ll make a meaningful impact.”
From fundraising and program planning to showing up at events and promoting vegan living, Heather is already helping CAA grow stronger.
Final Thoughts
Heather’s story is a reminder that each of us can use our skills, passions, and voices to create change. Whether you’re attending Twin Cities Veg Fest, trying a new vegan recipe, or talking to a friend about animal rights, your actions matter.
“I look forward to getting to know more of you and supporting CAA’s mission,” Heather said. “Let’s keep building a world where all animals are treated with kindness and respect.”
Welcome, Heather, and thank you for joining CAA’s leadership team!
If you’d like to support Heather and the rest of the CAA Board in our mission to build a compassionate community for animals and people, check out our volunteer opportunities, donate, or join us at one of our upcoming events!
