About Us - Friends of Russell County Animals
We believe lasting change happens through compassionate, community-rooted relationships. That’s why we meet pet owners where they are—offering support without judgment, listening before we act, and building trust with every conversation.
Whether through low-cost spay/neuter, emergency vet assistance, or helping neighbors access pet resources, we work hand-in-hand with the people of Russell and Tazewell Counties in Virginia . This is essential to keeping pets with their families, preventing unnecessary surrenders, and addressing the root causes of animal homelessness.
Our Mission
Friends of Russell County Animals (FRCA) works to keep pets and their people together by expanding access to veterinary care, preventing pet overpopulation, and reducing shelter intake in Russell and Tazewell Counties, Virginia.
Our Story
Founded in 2016, FRCA began as a small but determined group of animal advocates in rural Southwest Virginia. From its first outreach event to its current programs in spay/neuter access, emergency care, and pet-owner support, FRCA has always been grounded in the belief that every pet deserves a loving home - and every person deserves the resources to care for their companion.
Over the years, we've helped thousands of pets stay out of shelters and remain healthy in their homes. Through partnerships, volunteer support, and community engagement, we continue to build a more humane region - one family and one animal at a time.
Community at the Heart of Our Mission
By standing with our community, we not only help animals—we uplift people, strengthen families, and create a more humane future for all. Many pet owners in our Central Appalachian region face overwhelming barriers—unexpected vet bills, limited transportation, food insecurity—that make it difficult to care for their animals. We’re here to change that.
Our Programs
Our programs are designed to provide the kind of support that keeps pets
healthy and at home, where they belong. They are designed to remove barriers to care and prevent pet surrender.
We offer:
• Spay/Neuter Assistance: Low-cost and free services to reduce overpopulation.
• Emergency Veterinary Support: For pets with urgent medical needs.
• Pet Food and Supply Aid: Keeping pets fed and families stable.
• Transportation Services: Helping owners reach essential appointments.
Outreach
- helping families care for their pets during hard times by providing supplies, temporary housing, training, or helping with pet deposits.
Veterinary Assistance
- pets receive urgent veterinary care to help prevent suffering and abandonment.
Low- or No-Cost Spay and Neuterthrough our partner clinics
- reducing overpopulation and shelter intake while supporting long-term pet health.
Our Board
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Charlene Farthing President/Founder
Charlene established Friends of Russell County Animals in 2016 and has led the organization through nearly a decade of growth. She brings deep knowledge of grassroots advocacy, community engagement, and direct support for underserved pet owners in Southwest Virginia. Based in Lebanon, Charlene is involved in every aspect of FRCA's outreach and programs
Lisa Roosa
Secretary
Lisa joined FRCA in 2020 and plays a key role in documentation, communication, and volunteer coordination. Her strategic thinking and attention to detail help keep FRCA’s operations smooth and efficient. She lives in Stafford, VA, and supports a wide range of FRCA programs and grant initiatives. Lisa is a retired Fairfax County Virginia police officer and former Founder/Director of Second Chance Rescue in Fredericksburg, VA. She now operates and manages a thriving petsitting business.
Jesse Reeve
Treasurer
Since 2020, Jesse has managed FRCA’s financial records, budgeting, and reporting systems. He ensures the organization’s resources are used responsibly to maximize impact. His dedication to fiscal transparency helps support long-term sustainability. Jesse is a retired Fairfax County Firefighter. He now resides in Stafford, VA and is an avid lover of the Shih Tzu breed and barbecuing.
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Our Advisory Board
