July 14. 2025
At Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA), volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. One of those amazing volunteers is Laura Hofer, who has helped make events like Twin Cities Veg Fest and the Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge more welcoming, joyful, and impactful. Her volunteer work includes being on the planning committee for the World Day for Farmed Animals Vigil, the Vegan Chili Cook-Off, Twin Cities Veg Fest, and the Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge.
Why Laura Volunteers
Laura started volunteering with CAA because she loves helping people connect over food and compassion. She was especially drawn to event planning and outreach.
“I was drawn to event committee work because I believe in the power of joyful, welcoming spaces to highlight all the best parts of veganism,” Laura shared. “Events that center delicious food and community connection are a great way to show how fun and accessible a vegan lifestyle can be.”
By supporting events that bring people together over shared values, Laura helps more people understand the benefits of plant-based living — for animals, the planet, and their own health.
Finding CAA and What It Means to Her
Laura discovered CAA through her good friend, CAA Board member, Julie Knopp, who inspired her to move from vegetarian to vegan. That connection opened the door to a whole new community — and she’s been grateful for it ever since.
“I’m continually impressed by the CAA community and the genuine care they show for animals, people, and the planet,” Laura says. “Their dedication to spreading the vegan lifestyle is grounded in compassion and inclusivity, making it easy for anyone to feel welcome and inspired.”
For Laura, what stands out most about CAA is how much kindness and purpose is woven into everything the organization does. “It’s clear that CAA leads with kindness and purpose, creating a positive space where change is both possible and fun.”
Laura’s Favorite Part of Volunteering at CAA
Laura’s favorite part of being a CAA volunteer is the strong sense of community.
“I really enjoy connecting with like-minded people who care about animals and share a vision for a more compassionate world,” she said. “Supporting efforts that promote empathy and reduce harm to animals is something I care deeply about.”
Whether she’s organizing an event or just chatting with someone about vegan food, Laura is always building a more compassionate community.
Life Outside of Volunteering
When she’s not volunteering with CAA, Laura enjoys spending time in nature, petting dogs, and supporting women’s sports. She’s especially proud to cheer on the Minnesota Lynx!
She’s also a big fan of trying new plant-based foods and enjoys both whole-food meals and fun vegan comfort food. Some of her favorite vegan-friendly spots include: Francis, Lulu EthioVegan, Trio Plant-Based, Reverie Cafe + Bar, and yes, even Taco Bell!
Inspiration and Passion to Take Action for Animals
Laura’s passion for helping animals is clear in everything she does. Her plant-based lifestyle comes from a deep belief in animal rights.
“I care deeply about the lived experiences of animals and believe they deserve to be treated with respect, empathy, and dignity,” Laura said. “I’m committed to advocating for their well-being and helping others see them as individuals with their own needs and emotions.”
Fostering a Feathered Friend
Laura also fostered a chicken named Abbi through Chicken Run Rescue. Giving Abbi a safe and loving home was just one more way she puts her values into action.
Thank You, Laura!
We’re so grateful to Laura Hofer for everything she brings to CAA — her energy, kindness, and belief in a better world for all beings. From planning big events to fostering animals in need, Laura is truly helping to build a more compassionate future, one act of kindness at a time.
Inspired by Laura? Get Involved With CAA!
If Laura’s story inspires you, consider supporting our work by volunteering, donating, or exploring creative options like matching grants through your employer. Together, we’re creating a more compassionate world for animals, people, and our planet.
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Past Volunteer Spotlights
Want to meet more of our amazing volunteers? Explore these recent volunteer profiles:
- Volunteer Spotlight on Sheryl Lyke
- Volunteer Spotlight on Rianna Engel
- Volunteer Spotlight on Magnus Larsson
- Volunteer Spotlight on Ronan Magnus
- Volunteer Spotlight on Kedar Deshpande
- Volunteer Spotlight on Anna Larsson
- Volunteer Spotlight on Alysia Nelson
- Volunteer Spotlight on Tom Hoch
- Volunteer Spotlight on Lexy Race
- Volunteer Spotlight on Faustine Micheyls
- Volunteer Spotlight on Grace Prins
- Volunteer Spotlight on Kim Milligan
- Volunteer Spotlight on Allison Gamble
Making an Impact Together
Volunteers drive everything we accomplish. Last year, more than 280 volunteers donated over 6,263 hours of their time — more than $125,000 in value to CAA! They’ve also gained valuable advocacy skills, leadership experience, and lasting friendships in our community.
Read more about our collective impact in the annual report and browse available volunteer roles here.
CAA’s Theory of Change
Our mission is to encourage people to embrace their empathy for farmed animals and move toward a plant-based diet. This drives our vision of a world where all animals, human and nonhuman, can thrive.
We grow our movement by welcoming people of all backgrounds. Through our programs, events, and activities, we create a powerful cycle of increasing awareness, building community, empowering advocates, and generating lasting change for farmed animals. This approach targets both individual and institutional change.
What kind of change do we create? Our programs reduce consumption of animal products, improve the lives of farmed animals, and benefit the well-being of all Minnesotans.
We developed this theory of change in 2017 through comprehensive community input, including an online stakeholder survey, two public town halls, and strategic planning sessions with staff, core volunteers, and board members.
Your Skills, Our Mission
Ready to turn your compassion into action? Join our community of changemakers! Explore our volunteer opportunities to find the perfect match for your interests and skills. From hands-on roles in food service, photography, and event coordination to strategic planning for Twin Cities Veg Fest and helping to manage our website, there’s a meaningful way for everyone to contribute.
