Emma Perez-Singh, president of ASK, is an Administrative Services Manager for the Riverside County Continuum of Care. She has over a decade of experience working in animal welfare, where she created programs to support the homeless and their pets. In October 2021, Emma transitioned into homeless services full time. Emma is passionate about keeping pets and their owners together -- especially for persons transitioning from homelessness to housing. Emma graduated from California Baptist University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2006 and a Master of Arts in Public Administration in 2008. Emma has lived in the City of Riverside since 2005 with her husband, two daughters, and 3 fur babies.

Mike Gardner, vice-president of ASK, is the former Ward 1 Riverside City Council Representative. He was elected in November 2007. Mike came to Riverside in 1971 to complete his education at UCR. He worked in a variety of management positions at Southern California Edison for 23 years.

As a passionate animal advocate Mike has been the lead Council Member for the City of Riverside in adopting legislation for mandatory spay/neuter and microchipping of pets, promoting adoption of shelter pets and supporting Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) of feral cats when possible.

Jim Kneepkens, secretary of ASK, retired in 2023 after a rewarding career in marketing, advertising, community relations and customer service. He also directed media, government and public relations. Jim’s career included ten years in the private sector followed by 28 years in the public sector. Jim earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Southern California and a Master’s in public administration from California State University at Long Beach.

Jim enjoys volunteering in the community including disaster response for the American Red Cross which often includes pet rescues. His hobbies include hiking, skiing and riding his dirt bike.

Carolyn Badger, treasurer of ASK, worked in journalism for 30-plus years and now concentrates on volunteerism. Her first dog, a chow chow, taught her the human-animal bond and is the inspiration for her continued commitment to helping shelter animals. She currently has two rescue dogs and lives in Riverside.

Larry Rubio's more than 42 years of transit experience began in 1978 at Orange County Transit District ( now known as Orange County Transportation Authority); then in 1988, Larry moved to Riverside Transit Agency. During his 33 years with RTA, Larry held numerous management positions and in 2001 he was named chief executive officer. Larry retired in December 2021.

Larry graduated with honors from the University of Redlands and continued his education at University of California, Riverside, and Indiana University. Larry and his wife, Clara, have seven children and 12 grandchildren. They live in the Woodcrest community of Riverside County.

Diane Falconer enjoyed 17 years as a naturalist for Riverside County. She has helped get injured wildlife to rehabilitators and has a strong desire to help animals in need.