Houston Lead • Foster Placement • Mentor • Community Builder
This month, we’re proud to shine our Volunteer Spotlight on someone whose leadership, heart, and dedication have shaped the Houston region in extraordinary ways: Jordan Orta, Houston’s Lead and a volunteer admired by everyone who works with her!
How Jordan’s Journey Began
Jordan joined Doodle Dandy Rescue in November 2022, originally just hoping to find a hypoallergenic dog for her family. After applying for a pup and not being selected, she received a message from an Adoption Coordinator asking if she’d ever considered fostering.
Her reaction? “Being a foster? ME?! I don't have a dog, I have never RESCUED and animal! How can I help?!” But she said yes—and three days later, Obi arrived. That first foster placement changed everything. Jordan quickly discovered a passion for rescue work and began supporting DDR in multiple roles: social media, supplies, foster mentoring, and eventually Foster Placement, where she found her stride. Today, she leads the entire Houston region with warmth, clarity, and a deep understanding of what fosters need to thrive.
What Inspired Her to Stay
Jordan’s inspiration came from a simple but powerful moment: someone saw potential in her that she hadn’t seen in herself. “There’s an entire team of people who call out the best in you and leverage everyone’s skills to make this rescue what it is.” That sense of community—and the belief that everyone has something valuable to contribute—continues to fuel her work.
Why She Loves Volunteering
For Jordan, it’s all about the relationships. As part of the Foster Placement team, she doesn’t just ask, “Can you take this dog?” She builds connections, supports fosters through the tough moments, and remembers what it felt like to be brand‑new and overwhelmed. “Times will get tough, and having someone there who understands makes all the difference.” Her empathy and lived experience make her a trusted guide for fosters across Houston.
A Leader Who Builds Community
In her role as Houston’s Lead, Jordan has become a cornerstone of the region’s growth. She is known for:
Mentoring new volunteers with patience and honesty
Growing the Houston office by actively recruiting and welcoming new fosters
Creating a supportive, connected environment
Leading by example, always willing to jump in wherever she’s needed
Her leadership has strengthened the Houston community and inspired countless volunteers to get involved.
A Rescue Moment She’ll Never Forget
Jordan’s third foster fail, Nikki, holds a special place in her heart. Nikki arrived as a breeder surrender—fearful, unsocialized, and unsure of the world. After months of slow progress, something incredible happened. Nine months after arriving, Nikki walked up to Jordan’s husband and asked for pets—for the very first time. “It might sound small, but after nine months of fear, anxiety, and meal protests, it was huge.” Moments like that remind Jordan why she does this work.
What Volunteering Has Taught Her
“It’s amazing what a group of strangers can accomplish with a common goal and interest.”
Her journey is proof of that—one “yes” turned into a community, a mission, and a home full of doodles that changed her life.
Fun Facts About Jordan
She has foster‑failed one dog every year since joining DDR. “I can’t foster fail anymore—I’m at the county limit!”
Her first foster fail, Obi, turned out to be a Bloodhoodle (50% bloodhound!) after DNA testing.
His legendary stinkiness suddenly made perfect sense—and now it’s one of her favorite stories!
Written By: Denise, DDR Volunteer