Board of Directors

Kim Sill

After Kim’s sister-Michelle was killed in a domestic violence incident, Sill decided that she needed to do something with her life that would make a difference so in 2001, she retired from acting and began working in the world of animal rescue. Sill protested puppy mill pet shops all over Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Malibu and the valley from 2008 to 2010. Sill also founded a group called D Cups Saving Tea Cups, which was a group of dedicated women who were active in dog rescue and eliminating puppy mills around California.

During this time, Sill began filming puppy mills and eventually sent the footage to the producers of the Dog Whisperer which resulted in an hour long show about puppy mills. She also guest starred in an episode of Caesar Millan’s show, The Dog Whisperer. Sill filmed her journey while undercover in puppy mills located in the Little Rock area of California. She worked undercover with an animal rights group called Last Chance for Animals.

Sill started The Shelter Hope Project, a comprehensive shelter support program transferring dogs from overcrowded, high-kill shelters to locations throughout the country where they are adopted into permanent, loving homes. Sill opened the Shelter Hope Pet Shop at the Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks in an effort to compete with the puppy mill pet shops. Over 15 thousand dogs and cats have been saved at Shelter Hope Pet Shop in Thousand Oaks.

In 2015, Sill made a film called Saved In America, the story of Sill’s experience rescuing animals. Through her efforts and others, California became the first state in the nation to ban the sale of mass-produced dogs for sale. Several celebrities appear in Saved In America including Pink, Cesar Millan, Dr. Phil, Kim Kardashian, and Katherine Heigl, with music by Diane Warren and Dave Grusin.

Kim, who is on our Board of Directors, is currently producing a documentary about dog breeds that become the “trend” and then subsequently flood the shelters.

Pam Perlmutter

Pam Perlmutter is on our Board of Directors and is a small business owner, entrepreneur, and community activist. Since 2013 pam has managed the shelter hopes promotional materials and print media. This includes designing the brochure and business cards, spearheading the magnet campaign and printing signage and banners for special events.

Pam has fostered over a thousand mama and puppies and taken many to therapy groups in need of unconditional love. Pam is working harder than ever in 2023 to help Shelter Hope bring awareness to the many issues that dogs and cats face in the shelters and keep the public informed on how they too can help.

Caroline Cusumano

Caroline Cusumano is a passionate artist, seasoned athlete, and committed activist based in Malibu, bringing a unique blend of creative energy, endurance, and dedication to her role as Board Member for Shelter Hope.

Caroline’s artistic expression, characterized by her striking glass paintings, has not only made an impact on the art scene but also in the realm of philanthropy. These artworks frequently find their way into charitable auctions, reflecting Caroline’s drive to support causes that resonate with her deeply. In addition to her art, Caroline is a steadfast advocate for equal healthcare and animal rights. Her passion for change isn’t merely lip service; she actively participates in movements, using her voice and resources to aid in the fight for equality and justice.

Caroline’s spirit of perseverance and determination is evident in her exceptional sporting achievements. As a former PAC 10 Swimming Champion, she made a splash on the global stage, ranking among the top ten in the world in the 200 butterfly event. Her name remains etched in the annals of Arizona State University as a record holder for the same event. Caroline’s impressive record extends beyond the pool; she has competed in over 15 marathons, boasting a personal best time of 3:40.

Caroline’s success isn’t limited to her professional and philanthropic pursuits or on our Board of Directors. As a mother of a gifted filmmaker and a successful lawyer, she takes immense pride in the achievements of her children, seeing them as a testament to her commitment to nurturing talent and encouraging hard work.

Joining the Board of Shelter Hope, Caroline brings her varied talents, unyielding passion for animal rights, and a history of unparalleled commitment, promising a strong and innovative leadership that will be instrumental in driving the organization’s mission forward.”

“If there are no dogs in Heaven,
then when I die I want to go where they went.”

Will Rogers – Vaudeville Performer