Rich Weiner
Executive Director
Rich Weiner started his love for birds when he purchased "Prince", his male CAG. Soon after that came "Ninja" his female U2. That was over 24 years ago. He soon became known as the man who will take in your unwanted bird. After realizing what a need there is for companion bird rescue, he started a Refuge for Saving the Wildlife, Inc.
Rich holds certification as an Avian Specialist by the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC). Rich is also a certified wildlife educator for raptors (hawks, owls, & falcons) and the Refuge is home to two resident Screech Owls, Sakari and Nascha.
Karen Weiner
Adoptions Director and Volunteer Director
Karen first came to the Refuge when she was looking to adopt a bird. Initially, she had concerns about adopting a bird from a rescue because of the risk of diseases. She grilled the Refuge staff as much as she was grilled. She eventually adopted Sambird, a female medium sulfur crested cockatoo. Karen then interviewed the Refuge for a group known as "For The Birds", a group dedicated to raise funds for rescues. Karen began her volunteer work at the Refuge after that time and eventually earned her current position.
Karen is owned by Sammie, her M2, and Jessie, a Lovebird. She has added Sambird (MSC2), Scout (Lovebird), Trooper (GC2), Poppie (GC2), and Sunshine (GC2). Karen is also a licensed foster home for the Refuge and currently fosters Jackie, a special needs Half-Moon Conure. She works endlessly in her role and provides all the volunteers with continual training. More recently, Karen has taken over the role of Adoptions Director and continues to work towards finding forever homes for our feathered charges, a role she takes seriously. Karen has continued her studies towards her Veterinary Technician training and works as a vet tech at an animal hospital in her spare time.
