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STAFF
Gavin Bateman
AmeriCorps Employee
Gavin is a motivated recent graduate of the Urban Planning program at the University of Utah, seeking to use his focus and skills to support the development of socially and environmentally just systems in his community. He fosters intense empathy for all living things, and hopes to help build a world where animals are brought into our sphere of moral consideration. Gavin is serving with Ruff Haven through the Salt Lake County AmeriCorps program, and is excited to assist their Pet Pantry operations. He has a long history of professional service sector experience, and frequently volunteers with the Food Justice Coalition to make vegan meals for their free lunch program for food-insecure neighbors.
On his own time, Gavin enjoys taking bike rides around the city, hiking nearby trails, reading, drawing, and living life with his dear friends and family members. He aims to expand his knowledge of and involvement in his city and beyond, and aspires to eventually work to directly combat the crises in the housing, transportation, and sustainability sectors
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Helena Nurre
Helena is a student at the University of Utah studying Criminology, Psychology and Sociology. She is originally from Reno, Nevada, but moved to Salt Lake City in order to attend the U. She has always enjoyed skiing and the outdoors, which makes Salt Lake City the perfect place for her. She has few different involvements; such as working in customer service, being a research assistant in a lab and interning in policy at a non-profit health center.
She is completing a year of service for the AmeriCorp program, and Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering is a great fit for her because she has loved animals all of her life. She has had dogs all of her life, as well as a couple of betta fish and guinea pigs for a certain period of time. Her family has always rescued dogs from shelters, so she is very passionate about helping to make sure all rescue animals can find a home.
When Helena is not doing school or one of her commitments, you can find her on the tennis court, hanging out with friends, reading a true crime novel or watching a show. She also enjoys photography and occasionally practices it in her free time.
AmeriCorps Employee
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Aiden Sanders
Aiden is a recent graduate of San Jose State University with a bachelor’s in Social Work. He is also a new resident of Utah, as he just moved here from California, and is excited to begin his new career with Ruff Haven. Aiden looks forward to using his education, experience, and personal values to support people and animals in a compassionate and meaningful way.
Prior to relocating to Utah, Aiden interned at SAGE Veterinary Centers, where he had the opportunity to work closely with families during some of their most emotional and difficult moments, including end-of-life care, grief support, and compassionate client communication. That experience strengthened Aiden’s ability to listen with empathy, remain calm under pressure, and provide support with patience, respect, and understanding.
Outside of work, Aiden enjoys spending time with his family, being with his dogs, being outdoors, and reading whenever he can. He cares deeply about helping others and believes that kindness, connection, and compassion can make a real difference in people’s lives. Aiden is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Ruff Haven community and looks forward to contributing with empathy, dedication, and a genuine passion for service.
Community Care Manager