Nicole Snedeker, BSW is the Interim Executive Director of Soul Friends, Inc., bringing a unique blend of leadership, resilience, and lived experience to the organization’s mission of advancing healing through the human-animal bond. A U.S. military veteran and social worker, Nicole is passionate about trauma-informed care, community engagement, and creating opportunities for children, families, veterans, and individuals facing adversity to experience hope, connection, and healing.
Nicole earned her Bachelor of Social Work at St Joseph’s University and is pursuing her Master of Social Work while continuing to expand her leadership in nonprofit administration and clinical programming. Prior to becoming interim Executive Director, she served in multiple operational and program support roles at Soul Friends, developing extensive knowledge of the organization’s services, community partnerships, and commitment to excellence in animal-assisted mental health care. Nicole is especially dedicated to strengthening supports for youth and young adults transitioning from foster care to independent living. She believes that healing occurs through relationships built on trust, compassion, empowerment, and belonging, and she is committed to ensuring that every participant is met with dignity, respect, and opportunity.
As Interim Director, Nicole oversees organizational operations, strategic growth, and financial oversight while working alongside an experienced leadership team to expand Soul Friends’ impact across Connecticut and beyond. Under her leadership, the organization continues to strengthen its evidence-informed, trauma-responsive programming while honoring the welfare of its therapy animals and advancing innovative approaches grounded in One Health, One Welfare, and the healing power of human-animal relationships.
Nicole is committed to building the next generation of leaders in animal-assisted services through mentorship, collaboration, and community partnerships, ensuring that Soul Friends’ more than two decades of service continue to grow for generations to come.
