By Kat Bryant

The Daily World

Dana Staab-Erickson has resigned as executive director of PAWS of Grays Harbor to pursue a new career.

“I still love the organization. I will miss helping the animals in need, for sure,” said Staab-Erickson, 27. “But I need to think about my future financially. I’m building a life, buying a house, getting married; so I need to go somewhere that I could grow financially.”

Since she took the lead at PAWS in March 2018, the nonprofit animal shelter’s annual budget has increased by more than 30%, donations by nearly 150% and social media followers by 5,000. During her tenure, she has overseen the purchase of a reliable transport van, construction of an on-site cat enclosure and dog kennels, and numerous other improvements to the facility and its operations.

Staab-Erickson will start her new job Monday with the U.S. Postal Service in Aberdeen.

“I have loved working at PAWS, and I’m still a huge supporter of the work that’s done here,” she said, noting that she will continue to donate each month through the nonprofit’s “Pack Leader” program.

“We are disheartened to lose Dana. She has been a valuable asset to PAWS of Grays Harbor,” board president Molle Bouch said. “We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”

The shelter, located at 800 W. First St. in Aberdeen, will continue operating as usual while the board searches for a new director, Bouch said. The shelter is currently open only by appointment due to the coronavirus. Call 360-533-1141 for information.