Board of Directors

Tails of Hope WI is guided by a dedicated board of directors that develops strategy, sets goals, and oversees the rescue’s activities to ensure we continue to fulfill our mission and vision.

  • Amy Baker

    Amy Baker

    FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

    After being diagnosed with stage four metastatic melanoma in 2019, Amy felt compelled to give back and make a difference in the world. After a few years of fostering for some other rescue groups, she founded Tails of Hope WI, which is dedicated to helping dogs of all shapes and sizes, in any health, including some with major medical issues.
    Amy lives in Alma, Wisconsin with her husband and her two youngest daughters. She also has two grown children, works full time for the State of Wisconsin, and is an EMT/first responder.

  • family standing outside posing for photo

    Ashley Smelser

    FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

    Ashley has been involved with Tails of Hope WI since its beginning in 2019, and she has worn many hats over the years. Currently, she serves as the Financial Director, in addition to administering medical care to dogs coming into the rescue, participating in the fundraising committee, and fostering.
    Ashley lives in Winona, Minnesota with her husband and four children, all of whom love helping out with the rescue as much as they can. They also keep busy with their menagerie of pets, which includes four dogs, four cats, a bearded dragon, a pacman frog, and—last, but not least—a betta fish.