ABOUT US
Dr. Lisa Thompson
I am a Christian wife, mom, and veterinarian. I grew up in Florida but currently reside in central Colorado with my husband, 2 young sons, 2 Labrador Retrievers and 2 orange kitties. I founded The Pet Cross in 2019 with the support of my husband. It is my profession and my passion.
The oversight of charitable services for the pets of the homeless has been a concern of mine since veterinary school. The need was obvious on the streets of downtown everywhere, but it took many years to reach a point in life that we could donate the time and money this cause deserved. It is with great pleasure and a full heart that we can now do our part to fill this need.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTOR'S
President
Dr. Lisa Thompson
I have dedicated over 20 years to the field of small animal veterinary medicine. My journey began at the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, where I graduated with Cum Laude honors in 2005. Following graduation, I started my career as a general practitioner in the Orlando area. Throughout my years of practice, I refined my expertise across a variety of specialties, with a particular passion for internal medicine and tackling challenging cases. Working in an affluent community enabled me to offer the most advanced and comprehensive care available. However, I strongly believe that every pet deserves access to high-quality veterinary care, regardless of their owner’s circumstances.
In 2013, my family relocated to Colorado, which prompted me to explore the veterinary care options available to underserved populations in that area. Upon discovering that these options were limited, I volunteered with existing organizations but soon realized a desire to make a greater impact. This motivation led me to purchase a mobile veterinary clinic and establish The Pet Cross in 2019. Through this initiative, we deliver free basic veterinary care to those in need.
Currently, I divide my time between homeschooling my two sons and operating The Pet Cross. Striking a balance between these responsibilities is important to me, as I deeply value both missions. The Pet Cross has grown to include a governing board and additional veterinarians, which has allowed us to share the workload and broaden our reach. I am both proud and humbled by the evolution of The Pet Cross and feel truly blessed to continue supporting my clients and their pets.
Vice President
Charles (Chip) Thompson
Secretary
Cristal Hubbard
Treasurer
Debbie Knilens
Debbie Knilans serves as the board treasurer for The Pet Cross. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, she has extensive experience in operations, information technology, cybersecurity, risk management, compliance, and banking supervision. Throughout her career, Debbie has consistently championed collaborative change and cultivated strong partnerships within her professional and volunteer roles. In addition to her role at The Pet Cross, Debbie contributes her expertise as a member of My Credit Union's supervisory committee in Bloomington,
Minnesota. She is also a certified life coach, reflecting her commitment to personal development and community support. Debbie teaches yoga and meditation, sharing her passion for wellness with others. Her creative interests include writing, bookbinding, painting, and baking sourdough. At home, she enjoys the companionship of her two kittens, Daphne and Tyson and her husband, Stuart.
Executive Director
Dana Rocha
Director of Operations
Kimberly Bolding, MSM, MCJ
Kimberly holds a Master of Science in Management (MSM) and a Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) and has extensive experience working with nonprofit organizations and community service initiatives. Her background includes leadership, operations, and program development focused on supporting underserved populations and strengthening community resources.
In addition to her professional experience, Kimberly offers a unique and valuable perspective as both a board member and a grateful client of The Pet Cross. Living with Muscular Dystrophy and wheelchair bound, she understands firsthand the importance of accessible services and compassionate organizations that meet people where they are.
Kimberly’s commitment to serving unhoused and low-income pet owners is also deeply personal. Her son, who experienced homelessness and had a deep love for animals, was tragically killed while living on the streets. Through her work with The Pet Cross, Kimberly sees many of the individuals served by the organization as people who could easily have been someone like her son. This perspective fuels her dedication to ensuring that individuals experiencing hardship are treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Animals have been an important part of Kimberly’s life since childhood. She grew up with pets and lived on a ranch where she cared for a variety of animals, strengthening her lifelong appreciation for the human–animal bond.
Today she is a proud “dog mom” to three beloved dogs ranging from 25 to 125 pounds. As she often jokes, in her household their lives have truly “gone to the dogs” — and they wouldn’t have it any other way.
Member at Large
Amanda Smith
Member at Large
John Mark Haller
I am a husband and father of two grown children, as well as an ordained pastor. I currently serve at Calvary Chapel Eastside in Colorado Springs, where I teach the Bible verse by verse, provide pastoral counseling, and participate in discipleship and local outreach efforts.In addition to pastoral ministry, I have written several Christian books that focus on spiritual growth, learning to trust God through life’s difficulties, and helping believers better understand and share the message of the gospel. My desire is to help people understand the Bible clearly and live it out faithfully in everyday life.