Waterville Humane Society Welcomes New ‘Animal Loving’ Director

The Humane Society of the Waterville Area has announced the addition of a new executive director.

According to an article published by the Kennebec Journal, 48-year-old Cornville, Maine resident Josh Forester has been named the new executive director of the Humane Society Waterville Area.

The Kennebec Journal further explains that Forester previously owned North Carolina’s largest dog training center for six years. After his run with the company, he sold it so he could fulfill his dream of traveling across the United States in his RV.

After his excursions around the country, Forester decided it was time to plant his roots in the state he loves most: Maine. After arriving in Maine, he was hired as the new executive director of the Waterville shelter.

According to the KJ, Forester took on the role earlier this month and is super excited to lead the organization. Forester said he was impressed with the nonprofit’s board and staff.

The Kennebec Journal says the shelter’s staff of 12 people are mostly younger people who are used to working in an often stressful and challenging position.

Josh Forester, told the Kennebec Journal about the shelter staff:

“They don’t look at it as a job; they consider it a lifestyle, and it’s actually great to see. There is no ‘down’ time. This is not an environment where you have nothing to do. That will never happen.”

Forester further told the Kennebec Journal that the Waterville shelter operates on a budget of approximately $1 million per year and currently serves 17 surrounding communities.