Who We Are

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Alex Siska, the founder of Cleo's Legacy, was compelled to take action in response to the distressing reality of dogs in the rural counties of northern Kentucky who were languishing in shelters or struggling to survive on the streets. The proliferation of road dumps and the inadequate funding of the shelter where she volunteered to provide adequate care for dogs in dire need had become a pressing concern. The loss of her beloved "soul dog,” Cleo, served as a poignant catalyst, prompting her to make the jump and volunteer her spare time on a more impactful scale.

Cleo's Legacy was initially conceived as a bold idea: what if fostering were free? By eliminating the financial burden of fostering, Alex believed that more dogs could receive the necessary veterinary care and attention, ultimately increasing their chances of finding a forever home. This approach aims to address the root causes of pet overpopulation and the subsequent suffering of dogs in NKY. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by shelters and the importance of community involvement, Alex set out to create a paradigm shift in the way dogs were cared for and rehomed in the region. Through Cleo's Legacy, she has dedicated herself to creating a more compassionate and effective system, driven by a passion for animal welfare and a commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of dogs in need.

From a young age, I've had a deep love for animals. As a little girl, I would often be seen dragging home unwilling animals, claiming they had "followed" me. I never feared dogs that most people were afraid of, and I've always had an innate ability to communicate with animals, even wild ones, in a way that allowed me to help them.

I've always been a nurturing, nature-loving soul, frequently running off to the woods with the family dog in tow. I feel most at peace and at home when surrounded by animals and in the wilderness. This is likely why I'm constantly bringing dogs to the woods - they seem to share my comfort there.

Cats have also long held a special place in my heart, though not quite to the same degree as dogs. Nursing came naturally to me, and I unexpectedly found great joy in caring for bottle-fed babies, despite never considering myself a motherly type. When a friend, Robbin, needed help with a litter of four kittens that were ill, I took them in, despite my initial hesitation. To my delight, they all survived and thrived under my care.

This experience ignited a passion in me, as I realized how few people are willing to take on the heartache that can come with nursing vulnerable animals. When I look into the eyes of cats, dogs, birds, or even snakes, I see the same essence as in human eyes - pain, lost hope, fear. I feel compelled to be their advocate and voice, to help them however I can.

This has led me to volunteer at shelters, taking home animals that are often overlooked due to behavioral or medical issues. I've found that these "problem" pets often become the most devoted companions, grateful for being saved. In a way, they end up saving me as much as I save them. I'm driven to continue this work, and now I get to do it alongside the amazing people at Cleo's Legacy.

I am Darla Daniel, and I am thrilled to introduce you to my four beloved canine companions, Roscoe, Ozzy, Sadie and Harley. Roscoe, a pitbull, holds a special place in my heart as he was a bequest to me following the tragic loss of my son in a motorcycle accident. Harley, on the other hand, is a foster fail who has brought immense joy to our lives. Together, the four of us - including my husband - form a tight-knit tribe that is deeply connected and loving.

As a nurse by profession, I have always been drawn to helping others, and my passion for animal welfare is no exception. I am deeply committed to fostering dogs and doing my part to support those in need. Harley's journey to our home is a testament to this commitment. After attending an adoption event, she jumped into my car, and I simply couldn't bring myself to return her to the pound. It was as if she knew she had found her forever home, and I was grateful to provide her with a loving and nurturing environment.

Through my work with Cleos Legacy, I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of dogs and their human caregivers, providing support and resources to those who need it most. As a nurse, I understand the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness, and I believe that these qualities are essential in building strong, loving relationships with our canine companions. I look forward to collaborating with Cleos Legacy and like-minded individuals to make a difference in the lives of dogs and the people who love them.

I am Heidi Hagedorn, a Community Center Director by trade and a dog mom always. At home, we have two dogs – 8-year-old Loki and 2-year-old Geo. We also have a crazy cat named Raisin! As an NKU graduate with a degree in Elementary Education, I have always had a soft spot for the underdog – figuratively and literally!

I have recognized the need for more organizations like Cleo’s Legacy to change the way we look at rescue animals. Cleo’s Legacy has created a rather unique way to shift the thinking around buying/selling/breeding animals. Taking some of the financial burden off fostering pets we hope that more people will be able to provide loving homes for the pets when they may not otherwise have been able to.

My compassion for dogs has led me to sit on the board of Cleo’s Legacy and I can’t wait to see how many more dogs and cats we can help through our efforts. It’s with people like you that we can provide the accommodation and financial means to keep these animals alive and happy. As one part of the fundraising chair, it is my duty to help acquire funds to continue our hard work. It is my goal to make the world a happier and more fulfilling experience for everyone and I can do that by helping match the perfect dog with their perfect owner!

We are delighted to welcome Andrew, a skilled and dedicated firefighter and paramedic, to the board of Cleo's Legacy Inc. and the dog rescue community. With his extensive experience in both his professional and volunteer capacities, Andrew brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to our organization. As a passionate dog lover, Andrew has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the welfare and well-being of canine companions, and we are thrilled to have him join our team.

Shelly is a valued and esteemed member of our board, bringing with her a wealth of experience and expertise gained from a lifetime of passion for animals and entrepreneurship. Throughout her life, Shelly has had the privilege of sharing her home with a diverse array of animals, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for the natural world. In addition to her extensive experience with animals, Shelly has also had a successful career in business, having founded and operated multiple ventures throughout her lifetime.

As a physical therapist by trade, Shelly has developed a unique set of skills that enable her to approach challenges with a holistic and empathetic perspective. Her professional background has equipped her with the ability to think critically, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Shelly's most recent entrepreneurial endeavor is EarthJoy Treehouse Adventures, a business that she founded and owns. This venture allows her to combine her love of nature, animals, and adventure, providing a unique and immersive experience for her clients. Through EarthJoy, Shelly has created a platform that promotes environmental stewardship, conservation, and personal growth, aligning with our organization's mission and values.

As a member of our board, Shelly brings a unique combination of skills, experience, and passion to the table. Her ability to think outside the box, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world make her an invaluable asset to our organization. We are thrilled to have Shelly as a part of our team and look forward to the valuable contributions she will make in the years to come.

Bryan Helphenstine’s journey as an animal advocate and activist spans many years of selfless dedication to the welfare of animals in need. Known for his compassionate spirit and tireless commitment, Bryan has been a beacon of hope for countless animals, from kittens stranded in freezing conditions to dogs in desperate need of rescue from busy streets. His work has earned him the admiration and respect of both his peers and the animals he saves.

Bryan’s activism often takes him to the front lines of animal rescue, where he’s known for his quick thinking and action. Whether it’s building shelters for vulnerable kittens during the harsh winter months or rushing to rescue an injured dog in the middle of traffic, Bryan’s willingness to put himself at risk to protect animals is unparalleled. His resourcefulness and dedication have made him an invaluable asset to every rescue effort he’s part of.

When I first met Bryan, it was clear that his skills and passion for animal welfare would be an essential addition to our team. He brings more than just expertise—he brings heart. Beyond his rescue efforts, Bryan’s attention to detail and thoughtfulness extend to all aspects of his work. At long, hot events, he’s the one who remembers to bring food and drinks for fellow volunteers, ensuring that no one goes unnoticed or unsupported. His actions, though often small in the grand scheme of things, speak volumes about his character and his commitment to the community.

For as long as I’ve known him, Bryan has been a true animal hero—always thinking of others, whether it's an animal in need or a fellow volunteer. His work is a testament to the power of compassion and the difference one person can make. Bryan Helphenstine is not just an advocate; he’s a lifeline for animals and a tireless champion for change.