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.
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.
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.
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
ASTRO receives no government funding. We rely entirely on grants, thrift shop sales, and the generosity of our community to continue our lifesaving work.
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.
Adoption Center 20 S. Stearns Road, Oakdale Wednesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM
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.