Brandi Winkleman is a devoted mom to two adopted daughters, an unwavering advocate for all animals, and the Founder and President of A HOPE. Her journey toward opening Santa Rosa County’s first affordable spay and neuter clinic began in 2014 while volunteering at Santa Rosa County Animal Services, where she witnessed firsthand the heartbreaking reality of animals being euthanized due to overcrowding, limited resources, and medical challenges.

Driven by compassion and determination, Brandi became a catalyst for change in the Florida Panhandle. In 2018, she presented compelling statistics and research to local leaders, leading to significant reforms, including the removal of breed discrimination policies at the county shelter. She also collaborated with the City of Milton to introduce the area’s first ordinance supporting a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for community cats. By 2019, Santa Rosa County adopted similar policies, saving countless feline lives. In 2020, the county achieved a milestone by ending euthanasia for animals solely due to pregnancy, and by 2021, the local shelter achieved an incredible 90% save rate.

Since its founding in 2017, Brandi and her A HOPE team have transported over 8,000 animals to a spay/neuter clinic 2.5 hours away, ensuring critical services for pets in need. Their Rescue & Rehabilitation program has saved and adopted out more than 500 animals annually, including Brandi’s personal passion projects: neonate kittens and fancy rats. Under her leadership, A HOPE has even become a safe haven for over 40 rescued rats each year.

Brandi’s dedication has earned her recognition as a StoryCorps participant, a recipient of multiple grants, and a leading voice for programs that keep pets in homes. A HOPE’s ongoing efforts include building a 4,000-square-foot spay/neuter clinic on their 25-acre property in Milton, Florida—a facility poised to transform accessibility to essential veterinary care in the region.

Brandi’s innovative spirit, tireless advocacy, and commitment to improving animal welfare have not only reshaped the future for thousands of animals but have also inspired a community to embrace compassion and action. She remains driven by the dream of a world where every animal is valued, cared for, and loved.