The people behind the mission
Meet Our Team
O.S.C.A.R. is powered entirely by dedicated volunteers who believe every dog deserves a second chance.
Board of Directors

Cassie Kowalchuk – President, One Step Closer Animal Rescue, Inc. (OSCAR)
she/her
President
Cassie has been passionate about animal welfare her entire life, but it wasn't until she fostered her first dog — a scruffy terrier mix named Biscuit — that she knew rescue work was her calling. She joined O.S.C.A.R. as a volunteer in 2015 and has led the organization as CEO since 2019, growing the rescue from a small local operation into a thriving network of fosters, volunteers, and advocates across New Jersey. When she's not coordinating rescues or wrangling spreadsheets, you'll find her hiking with her two dogs, both proud OSCAR alumni.
oscarrescue@yahoo.com
Frank Varga – Vice President, One Step Closer Animal Rescue, Inc. (OSCAR)
he/him
Vice President
Frank has been a cornerstone of O.S.C.A.R. since the early days, bringing a steady hand and a deep love for dogs to everything he does. As Vice President, he works closely with the board to keep the rescue running smoothly — from coordinating volunteers to supporting foster families and overseeing day-to-day operations. Frank believes that every dog deserves patience, consistency, and a home where they're truly loved. When he's not working behind the scenes for O.S.C.A.R., you'll find him out on a trail or spending time with his own four-legged family members.
frank@oscaranimalrescue.com
Nancy Choffo
she/her
Secretary
Nancy is the organizational backbone of O.S.C.A.R., keeping the board connected, informed, and moving forward. As Secretary, she handles the details that keep everything running — from meeting notes to communications — so the rest of the team can focus on what they do best. Nancy came to rescue work through a love of dogs that she's carried her whole life, and she brings that same warmth and dedication to every role she takes on. She's the kind of person who makes everything look effortless, even when it isn't.
nancy@oscaranimalrescue.com
Deborah Kowalchuk – Treasurer, One Step Closer Animal Rescue, Inc. (OSCAR)
she/her
Treasurer
Deborah brings a meticulous eye and a genuine passion for animal welfare to her role as Treasurer. She keeps O.S.C.A.R.'s finances organized and transparent, making sure every dollar donated goes exactly where it's needed most — the dogs. Deborah understands that behind every rescue is a network of costs, and she works hard to ensure the organization stays strong and sustainable for the long haul. Her dedication to the mission is matched only by her love for the animals who make it all worthwhile.
deborah@oscaranimalrescue.comWant to join the team?
We're always looking for passionate volunteers to help with transport, events, fostering, and more.
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