December 16, 2024
We are excited to introduce our newest staff member at Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA), Kelso Anderson! With years of volunteer experience with CAA and a strong commitment to animal advocacy, Kelso brings passion, skill, and heart to our mission of ending factory farming. Read on to learn more about Kelso and his journey with CAA!
Stepping Into a New Role
As the new Program Assistant, Kelso will be helping CAA stay organized and efficient. In this part-time position he’ll help manage finances, track important data, and support other staff members with various projects and tasks. When asked about his motivation to apply for this role, Kelso shared:
“I’ve been volunteering with CAA for over two years, and I’m inspired by the organization’s mission. Joining the team officially felt like the best way to contribute more to ending animal suffering.”
Kelso’s attention to detail and dedication to the cause make him a great fit for this essential role.
From Volunteer to Staff Member
Kelso isn’t new to CAA’s work! Over the past two years, he has been a dedicated volunteer on the organizing committee for major events like the Vegan Chili Cook-Off, the Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge, and Twin Cities Veg Fest. Kelso has also been part of our chapter at the University of Minnesota and currently volunteers on the policy team. His volunteer roles have involved a wide range of tasks, including coordinating with sponsors and vendors, pitching stories to media outlets, and conducting background research on outreach strategies and legislation.
“I’ve loved being part of these events and working with the community to raise awareness. It’s rewarding to see people connect with the mission and make changes that help animals.”
Kelso’s experience has given him a deep understanding of CAA’s operations and goals, making him well-prepared for his new position.
Why He Got Involved With CAA
CAA’s commitment to reducing animal suffering is what drew Kelso to the organization. He believes that ending factory farming is urgent and necessary, and he appreciates that CAA tackles the issue through education, outreach, and policy work. For Kelso, CAA’s core values align perfectly with his own. As he puts it:
“I believe it is urgent to address gratuitous suffering no matter where it occurs to the greatest extent we possibly can. Currently, the best way to do this is by working toward an end to factory farming.”
CAA’s Mission
CAA’s mission is to encourage people to embrace their empathy for animals and move towards a plant-based lifestyle, to create a Minnesota where all beings, human and non-human, can thrive.
Looking to the Future
Kelso is particularly excited about CAA’s growth in policy and institutional work, like the Wholesome Minnesota program and recent legislative efforts to protect farmed animals and increase plant-based options in schools and workplaces. Kelso sees a future where these combined efforts lead to real, lasting change for farmed animals.
Favorite Vegan Foods
When it comes to plant-based eating, Kelso enjoys a “clean vegan diet” with staples like tofu, black beans, lentils, chickpeas, and split peas. He recently discovered the magic of freezing tofu, which has been a game changer for his cooking. Inspired by local vegan restaurants like Lulu EthioVegan, Kelso enjoys making dishes like miser wot and shiro at home.
For a sweet treat, he loves frozen coconut bars and fruit bars – which he sees as a healthier alternative to ice cream!
Beyond Animal Advocacy
When Kelso isn’t working to help animals, he keeps busy with several hobbies. He writes a blog about topics like animal welfare, and effective altruism. Recently, he’s been exploring new ways to use AI to become a more effective advocate.
Kelso is also an avid distance runner – though he’s currently sticking to the treadmill until winter ends. In addition, he’s been spending time honing his skills at pool.
We’re thrilled to welcome Kelso Anderson to the team and can’t wait to see how his passion and skills help CAA grow. Please join us in giving him a warm welcome!