Volunteers at Lollypop Farm help animals in need in so many important ways, including a small but mighty team of supporters called the Lollypop Farm Professionals. At its inception, the Professionals included working adults who wanted to support Lollypop Farm’s mission but found it challenging to volunteer for traditional shelter hours while building their careers, raising families, and working full-time.
The Professionals offer working adults meaningful ways to help animals in need while building relationships. Through creative fundraising events, community partnerships, and a shared passion for animal welfare, the Lollypop Farm Professionals turn limited free time into a powerful force for good. Fundraising events include the Hair of the Dog Pub Crawl, the Pars for Pets Golf Tournament, and the Pokes for Pets Tattoo Fundraiser.
Let’s meet some of the dedicated Professionals who help make these efforts possible.
Brian Chapman
Brian joined the Lollypop Farm Professionals in 2020 and helped launch the group’s first-ever charity golf tournament. He worked closely with the golf course, coordinated logistics, and helped secure sponsors.
Brian owns and operates a family-owned insurance agency in Macedon and Canandaigua. He’s married with a young daughter and shares his home with Huck, the dog, and Hector, the cat.
“Knowing all the good we do for Lollypop Farm and the animals in need makes it incredibly rewarding.”
Matt Peacock
Matt joined the Professionals in 2021 after moving to Rochester from San Diego, where he previously volunteered with shelters. He plays a key role in the annual Pub Crawl, helping with shirt design, raffle baskets, and event-day operations.
A Navy veteran, Matt supports veteran-focused initiatives whenever possible and is the proud pet parent of two small dogs, Bailey and Frank.
“Coming up with ideas and then seeing them happen — all while raising money for animals — is the best part.”
Josh Levitt
Josh joined the Professionals after adopting his black lab, Belle, and looking for ways to get involved locally. He helped lead the inaugural Pars for Pets charity golf tournament, handling everything from budgeting and sponsors to course planning and raffles.
Josh is an attorney with Hodgson Russ and has lived in Rochester since 2018. Belle is a familiar (and beloved) face at Professionals events.
“Seeing dollars come in the door that directly support Lollypop Farm is incredibly satisfying.”
Amanda Sharpe
Amanda joined the Professionals in October 2024, drawn by Lollypop Farm’s mission and her love for animals. She supports multiple events through planning, sponsorship outreach, raffle baskets, and on-site assistance.
Amanda works at the University of Rochester and volunteers with several civic organizations. She has two tuxedo cats, Oscar and Rizzo.
“It’s truly rewarding to collaborate with a group of volunteers who care so deeply.”
Melissa DiLella
Melissa joined the Professionals in August 2024 after supporting Lollypop Farm as both a donor and volunteer dog walker. She helped launch the first-ever Pokes for Pets tattoo flash fundraiser, which sold out within an hour.
Melissa is an IT Project Manager at ESL Federal Credit Union and is deeply involved in animal rescue. She has five rescue dogs and credits her soul dog, Penny, adopted from Lollypop Farm, for inspiring her passion.
“This group makes it possible to volunteer in a meaningful way, even with a full-time job.”
Maggie Doud
Maggie recently joined the Professionals Board after learning about the group through a friend. She brings a strong passion for animal welfare and professional expertise as a Human Resources Consultant.
Maggie lives locally with her husband, son, and two rescue dogs.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to support an organization that helps animals thrive.”
Nicole Vosburgh
Nicole’s connection to Lollypop Farm spans years, from adoption and fostering to becoming the organization’s volunteer apparel supplier. She joined the Professionals during golf tournament planning and assisted with logistics and event-day support.
Nicole is part of a blended family with six children, two cats, and a foster dog who became a permanent family member.
“Being more connected to what Lollypop Farm does for the community has been incredibly meaningful.”
Get Involved
The Lollypop Farm Professionals show that meaningful impact doesn’t require endless free time: just passion, creativity, and community. Interested in joining this dedicated group of animal advocates? Visit our Lollypop Farm Professionals webpage.
