The ASPCA has had its fair share of leadership changes over the years, with Matthew Bershadker taking over as the CEO in 2013. He has been instrumental in shaping the organization's direction and has implemented various initiatives to improve its operations.
Matthew Bershadker has been a key figure in the ASPCA's efforts to combat animal cruelty and promote animal welfare. He has testified before Congress on several occasions to advocate for stronger animal welfare laws.
Under Bershadker's leadership, the ASPCA has expanded its reach and impact, with a focus on community outreach and education. This includes working with local shelters and rescue groups to help care for and rehome animals in need.
The ASPCA has also faced controversies under Bershadker's leadership, including criticism for its handling of certain high-profile cases and its use of funds.
ASPCA Leadership
The ASPCA has a strong leadership team that's dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals.
Suzanne Robins is the Chief External Affairs Officer at the ASPCA, overseeing all external communications and partnerships.
The ASPCA's leadership team includes experts in animal welfare, law enforcement, and community engagement.
Matt Bershadker has been the President and CEO of the ASPCA since 2013, leading the organization's efforts to prevent animal cruelty and promote animal welfare.
The ASPCA has a network of local chapters and partners that help to advance its mission and reach more animals in need.
Financial Performance
Matthew Bershadker's compensation from ASPCA subsidiaries alone in 2020 was more than the top salary paid by the majority of U.S. humane societies and animal care-and-control agencies.
His compensation was a staggering $966,004, which is the highest paid individual for a single year in the whole history of the humane movement.
Under Bershadker's leadership, the ASPCA raised $57 million a year more than its predecessor.
This significant increase in revenue allowed the ASPCA to more than double its donated income and assets, achieving an increase in program spending of approximately 50%.
By the end of 2020, the ASPCA was raising almost $180 million more per year than when Bershadker took over.
Controversies and Criticisms
The ASPCA has faced criticism for how it spends its donations. A former CEO, Ed Sayres, has expressed disappointment with the organization's grants program, which has been reduced to around $5 million a year for local pet shelters.
This is a significant decrease from the $390 million in revenue the ASPCA generates annually. Sayres notes that the organization has an operating surplus of $50 million to $80 million, which could be used to support local shelters.
The ASPCA's current CEO, Matt Bershadker, earns a salary of nearly $1 million a year, including $881,785 in base salary and $108,740 in benefits. Other executives also receive high salaries, with some earning over $400,000.
We Are Not ASPCA
We are not ASPCA, and it's essential to understand the differences.
They don't like running deficits, even after cutting expenses to the bare minimum.
They had to post their IRS Form 990 and ask for donations, which they didn't want to do, especially during tough economic times.
This wasn't just about them, but also about the animals and other charities that rely on donations to survive.
They have significant differences with some of the ASPCA's policies, which were established before the current CEO took office.
They question the CEO's competence and accountability in managing humane programs.
See what others are reading: How Much Is the Ceo of Aspca Paid
Former CEO Criticizes ASPCA's Donation Spending
Former CEO Ed Sayres is speaking out against the ASPCA's spending habits, citing that only a small percentage of donations actually go towards helping local shelters.
The ASPCA's grants program has been reduced to just $5 million a year for pet shelters, despite having a revenue of $390 million per year.
This is a far cry from what Sayres had envisioned when he was in charge, and he's not alone in his criticism.
The organization finished with an operating surplus of $50 million or $80 million in 2020 and 2021, which could have been used to help shelters.
Most of the ASPCA's money goes towards activism, fundraising, and administrative costs, including the salary of current CEO Matt Bershadker, who makes nearly $1 million a year.
Bershadker's base salary is $881,785, and he also receives $108,740 in benefits, making him one of the highest-paid executives in the organization.
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