In 2011, I co-founded Cuse Pit Crew to challenge the stigma faced by pit bull-type dogs. Our mission was—and continues to be—about more than just changing perceptions; it’s about getting to the root of the issue through community engagement and education. We’ve worked with local animal advocates, legislators, media, and community leaders to spark real, ground-level change.

Today, I work for a large animal protection organization where I advocate for positive, lasting change for animals nationwide through legislative lobbying and policy reform.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me exploring with my husband, our two kids, and our rescue pups, Chase and Luigi. We’ve recently started fostering dogs—and soon kittens!—which has been both a hoot and deeply rewarding.

I’ve been on the board for 12 years, but how I first got involved with the organization goes back to 2012. A police officer stopped me one day to ask if I recognized a stray black pitbull he had just picked up. I didn’t, and when he said he was going to take him to the shelter, I couldn’t bear the thought. I offered to take him and try to find his owners myself. While I was searching, a friend suggested I reach out to Cuse Pit Crew. Once I learned about their mission, I knew I wanted to be part of it, and I started volunteering. When no one came forward to claim the dog, he officially became part of the family, and the “lost boy” was given the name Rufio.

Black dogs are often the least likely to be adopted, but I’ve always been drawn to them. Growing up, I was constantly bringing home stray dogs—almost always black pitbulls or pit mixes—and either helping reunite them with their families or finding them new forever homes. Looking back, I realize I’ve been an advocate for pitbulls and underdogs since I was a kid. I’ve never met a pittie that wasn’t full of love, and that’s still true today. Eventually, Rufio needed a sibling, so we rescued Jax, a black pit-lab mix.

Advocating, fighting the stigma, and educating has become a true passion of mine. I’m proud to be part of a mission that works every day to make a positive change.

In 2012, I adopted a pit bull from the CNY SPCA, unaware of the stigma that often surrounds the breed. After watching a TV show that featured Cuse Pit Crew, I felt an instant connection and knew I had to get involved. Volunteering with the Crew quickly became more than just a commitment—it became my calling. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to advocating for pit bulls and changing perceptions, one paw at a time. It’s never too late to discover your passion.

My name is Andrea Kaszycki. I have spent many years dedicated to animal advocacy, focusing on rescuing dogs and cats in need, promoting spay/neuter programs, and volunteering with local animal shelters and the Cuse Pit Crew. I became the Cuse Pit crew Volunteer Coordinator in 2023! With a deep passion for animal welfare, I have been involved in numerous rescues, providing shelter, love, and care to abandoned or abused animals. Alongside fostering and rehoming animals, I regularly volunteers at local shelters, walking and socializing shelter dogs to improve their chances of adoption. My commitment to animal rights extends beyond rescue efforts, advocating for stronger protections and better living conditions for animals everywhere. I am proud to have helped enact the animal abuse registry in Oneida County! It is my goal to make a profound impact on the lives of many animals and continue to be a tireless advocate for those without a voice. I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter, 3 rescue dogs and 5 cats!

My name is Hadley Skule, and I am a student at Syracuse studying Public Policy and Citizenship and Civic Engagement. I have had a strong love for animals since a young age, and pitbull bias has been a passion of mine since I was nine years old. I have worked in a foster-based rescue at home in New Jersey that specializes in neglect and abuse cases, providing low-cost spay, neuter, and vaccines for pet owners in the community, and volunteering at the Syracuse Municipal shelter. My drive in animal welfare is providing care to owners facing unforeseen circumstances, providing humane education, and promoting the rescue of overlooked dogs and dog breeds.