ASTRO Foundation
Turning Passion into Action
The ASTRO Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to rescuing cats and dogs in Oakdale, Riverbank, and Escalon, CA. Founded in 2012 by a small group of passionate animal lovers, ASTRO has grown from a foster-based rescue into a full-service adoption organization — with both a dedicated facility and a network of loving foster homes — making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.
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We opened our first adoption center in downtown Oakdale in 2021, marking a major milestone. Rapid program growth made it clear we needed more space, and thanks to a successful capital campaign, we moved into our current home at 20 S. Stearns Road, Oakdale in April 2025. Today, ASTRO rescues hundreds of animals each year — finding them loving homes while addressing the root causes of animal homelessness.
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OUR PROGRAMS
ASTRO's work goes beyond adoptions. Our Community Cat Program reduces feline overpopulation through TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) — a proven, humane approach to managing community cat colonies while improving quality of life for cats and neighborhoods alike.
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OUR TEAM
ASTRO is led by a dedicated Board of Directors: Founder and Board President Jaydeen Vicente, Vice President Anita Morphew, Treasurer Lynette Fletcher, and Board Members Laurette Wagner-Neumann, Jennifer Gowans, and Dorine Julius. Our staff includes Programs Manager Georgina Reteleas, Veterinary Technician Alyssa Darling-McCullough, Thrift Shop Manager Ashlee Brown, and Retail Specialist Katie Gilbreath. We are also deeply grateful for our incredible volunteers — without them, our mission would not be possible.
How We're Funded
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ASTRO receives no government funding. We rely entirely on grants, thrift shop sales, and the generosity of our community to continue our lifesaving work.
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Thrift & Gift Shop 250 E. E Street, Oakdale Tuesday–Saturday, 9 AM–4 PM
Our Thrift & Gift Shop offers a curated, boutique shopping experience — all goods are donated by community members, and every dollar supports our rescue animals.
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Adoption Center 20 S. Stearns Road, Oakdale Wednesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM
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Many of our pets are also available through foster homes or at Petco in Riverbank. We hold adoption events on alternating weekends at Petco Riverbank — email us at info@astrofoundation.org for upcoming dates.
Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer, or shop, you're helping build a more compassionate community for animals and people alike. Welcome to ASTRO.