Building healthier communities through the human-animal bond
Founded in Oakland, California, Project Pet emerged from a simple yet powerful belief: wellness isn’t just about individuals— it’s about the connections between people, animals, and communities. We saw how the human-animal bond could be a catalyst for healing, growth, and transformation.
What started as a grassroots initiative has grown into a comprehensive wellness movement. We work at the intersection of mental health, animal welfare, and restorative justice, creating programs that serve both two-legged and four-legged community members.
We recognize that human health, animal health, and environmental health are interconnected and interdependent.
Our programs are designed by and for the communities we serve, centering the voices of those most impacted.
We believe in healing over punishment, creating pathways for growth, redemption, and second chances.
Emphasizing the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health.
Applying new models and technologies to address systemic healthcare gaps.
Focused on equity, restorative practices, and serving marginalized communities.
Prioritizing collaboration and grassroots partnerships.
Committed to environmental responsibility and long-term impact.
The Beginning – Marshall meets Shuja in January 2020 after coming home from prison after 35 years, having his sentence exonerated. They begin connecting other returning family members to resources in Alameda County.
One Health Activation – In 2022, we approached Oakland Animal Services, the HIV Task Force, and other strategic organizations to partner on outreach.
“The Bay Area One Health Coalition was founded to scale impact. BAOHC became the infrastructure that holds the vision: integrated care, workforce development, technology innovation, and sustainable change.”
With BAOHC and local government as strategic institutional partners, we launched Wellness One—a comprehensive approach to community wellness that integrates animal-assisted therapy, behavioral health support, substance use treatment, and economic opportunity.
(Founder and CEO)
My vision of the future of health is grounded in lived experience and connecting authentically. I lived the data that reports on vulnerable populations—the unhoused, those struggling with addiction, individuals reentering society after incarceration—pets aren’t just companions.
(Program Manager / Peer Support Specialist)
(Dog Trainer / Peer Support Specialist)
(Outreach Coordinator / Peer Support Specialist)
(RVT)
