Michelson Found Animals’ Better Neighbor Project is dedicated to supporting pets and the people who love them by providing free pet food, supplies, and essential services to underserved communities. Through strategic partnerships and community events, we ensure that no pet is left behind due to financial hardship or crisis. Whether responding to natural disasters, assisting pet families experiencing housing insecurity, or strengthening access to veterinary care, our mission is to keep pets safe, healthy, and with their families where they belong.

This work wouldn’t be possible without our hardworking staff, who are on the ground every day making a difference. Check out the impact this incredible team has accomplished and meet the passionate leaders behind the Better Neighbor Project—dedicated individuals committed to improving the lives of pets and their people.

Our Impact

Making a Difference, One Pet at a Time

At BNP, we believe that no pet should go hungry, and no family should have to choose between their own well-being and their beloved companion. Through our community events, and ongoing support programs, we've provided essential resources to thousands of pets and their people. Our impact is growing every day—here's a look at what we've accomplished together!

Since 2020, the Better Neighbor Project has provided:

585,441 lbs of pet food distributed
154,033 pets served
70,500 families served

Meet the Team

Victoria Piar

Senior Program Manager,
Better Neighbor Project

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Victoria Piar

Senior Program Manager,
Better Neighbor Project

Victoria Piar serves as the Senior Program Manager for the Better Neighbor Project at the Michelson Found Animals Foundation. In this role, she and her team focus on supporting pet owners in Los Angeles by connecting them with resources to help mitigate the increasingly high cost of pet ownership. Joining the foundation in 2020, shortly after the inception of the Better Neighbor Project, Victoria has spearheaded the program’s growth, resulting in thousands of pets receiving free and basic preventative care each year.

Her over 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector have enabled her to thrive in positions that involve developing and implementing programs that rely on building connections and fostering relationships. She aims to continue this spirit of collaboration to support pet owners and contribute to the Better Neighbor Project’s ongoing growth and impact.

Outside of work one of Victoria’s favorite pastimes includes playing with her two pups, Junebug, a mischievous and playful Jindo mix with the curliest tail and Hercules, a sweet and snuggly pit bull terrier mix.

Jess Esguerra

Senior Program Coordinator,
Better Neighbor Project

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Jess Esguerra

Senior Program Coordinator,
Better Neighbor Project

Jess Esguerra is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in animal welfare and more than four years of expertise in producing impactful community events. As the Senior Program Coordinator for Michelson Found Animals Foundation’s Better Neighbor Project, Jess leads initiatives that provide free pet services to underserved communities.

Passionate about creating meaningful change, Jess combines her extensive background in animal welfare with strong skills in relationship building, operations, and project management.

Outside of work, Jess enjoys spending time with her family, running, pilates, thrifting, and exploring creative ventures.

Ruben Riggio

Program Coordinator,
Better Neighbor Project

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Ruben Riggio

Program Coordinator,
Better Neighbor Project

Martin Falcon joined the Better Neighbor Project team in 2022. He’s a passionate advocate for what the program stands for and has extensive experience in the animal welfare field. Over the years, Martin has worked to improve the lives of pets and their owners through the program’s many initiatives.
With a deep understanding of animal welfare, Martin has collaborated with local shelters, rescue organizations, nonprofits, and communities.

Dedicated to making a meaningful impact, Martin addresses the program’s initiatives by combining strategic planning, building volunteer relationships, and creative thinking. He looks forward to helping
pets and their families in Los Angeles.

Outside of work, Martin enjoys spending time with his dog and cats, playing soccer, and taking photographs.

Martin Falcon

Program Coordinator,
Better Neighbor Project

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Martin Falcon

Program Coordinator,
Better Neighbor Project

Martin Falcon joined the Better Neighbor Project team in 2022. He’s a passionate advocate for what the program stands for and has extensive experience in the animal welfare field. Over the years, Martin has worked to improve the lives of pets and their owners through the program’s many initiatives.
With a deep understanding of animal welfare, Martin has collaborated with local shelters, rescue organizations, nonprofits, and communities.

Dedicated to making a meaningful impact, Martin addresses the program’s initiatives by combining strategic planning, building volunteer relationships, and creative thinking. He looks forward to helping pets and their families in Los Angeles.

Outside of work, Martin enjoys spending time with his dog and cats, playing soccer, and taking photographs.

Ani & Dani

Warehouse Operations,
Better Neighbor Project

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Ani & Dani

Warehouse Operations,
Better Neighbor Project

Ani and Dani, the sister-and-brother duo, run all the warehouse operations and maintenance.
They ensure the warehouse remains a safe, clean, and welcoming place for everyone.

Ani is the adventurous queen of the warehouse, always ready to greet all volunteers. Ani is a big foodie, so if you have cat treats, be prepared to share.

Dani is the most affectionate cat you will never see. He does not like new people and will find the most creative hiding places. Once Dani gets used to you, he will follow you everywhere to get his cuddles.

We want to acknowledge that all of this hard work could not have been done without the unwavering support of our community partners and volunteers.

Want to join our team?

Visit http://foundanimalsorg.local/bnp-volunteer/ to learn more.

Contact Us:

Questions? Reach out to the BNP team at
betterneighbor@foundanimals.org.

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