Valerie Pullara

I have served as Executive Director of AGR Foundation, Inc., doing business as Sol Dog Lodge and Training Center, for the past eight years. With more than 47 years of experience in nonprofit start-ups, organizational restructuring, and growth management, I bring a deep understanding of how to guide organizations through meaningful change.

Throughout my career, I’ve held leadership roles as a City Manager, Executive Director with the American Red Cross, COO and Development Director across several nonprofits, and Senior Management at Beacon Group. I also spent time as a Project Manager at Target.com, served as Chapter Chair of SCORE Southern Arizona, and currently serve as Vice-Chair of the Pima County Small Business Commission.

At Sol Dog Lodge, I’m deeply committed to keeping dogs and families together by building compassionate, accessible services that truly serve our community. My approach blends structure, purpose, and heart — ensuring that every dog in our care is supported, and every person who walks through our doors feels seen and understood.

At home, I share life with my greyhounds and fosters, finding balance through Zentangle and time with my family. I strive to lead with calm, compassion, and community at the center — and I believe wholeheartedly that when we support people and their dogs, we strengthen the entire community.