Editor’s Note: In commemoration of Red Cross Month and Women’s History Month, we are publishing a series of #LeadLikeClara profiles featuring local women volunteer leaders who emulate the leadership characteristics of Red Cross founder Clara Barton.

Much like Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, Rahel Pachter has dedicated herself to serving those in need with unwavering determination. Barton, known as the "Angel of the Battlefield," fearlessly stepped into crisis zones to aid soldiers and civilians alike. Rahel embodies this same spirit of compassion and resilience, bringing comfort to both people and their beloved pets during disasters.

Rahel’s journey with the Red Cross began in 2019 as a blood donor ambassador, but her passion quickly expanded into disaster response and pet welfare. Witnessing the struggles of pet owners during emergencies, she took the initiative to become a pet liaison, ensuring that animals are not forgotten in times of crisis. Attending a Shelter Training Institute in California solidified her commitment, leading her to launch the pet liaison program in SEPA independently.

Rahel’s leadership shines through in her ability to make people feel safe and supported, even in the most trying circumstances. She has worked tirelessly to develop necessary forms and procedures for the Disaster Pet Liaison program. Rahel provides a valuable service to vulnerable pet owners. One of her memorable experiences involved helping an elderly woman who needed constant supervision. Recognizing the unique challenges in such situations, she plans to order essential supplies like slip leashes to assist responders in handling pets more effectively.

Like Barton, who built the Red Cross on the foundation of human connection and service, Rahel believes in the power of personal touch. She offers strong therapeutic hugs and brings hope to those she meets, ensuring that even in the darkest moments, no one feels alone.

As a Red Cross responder in Marion, near the Philadelphia line, she and her husband enter neighborhoods others might avoid, driven by faith and a deep sense of duty. As a Disaster Action Team supervisor, she mentors new trainees, witnessing firsthand the heartbreaking realities of those affected by disasters. Frustrated with the system’s temporary solutions, she dreams of creating a truly impactful organization to support people in need—just as Barton did when she revolutionized emergency relief.

One of Rahel’s biggest concerns is the lack of affordable, temporary housing for pets during disasters. The cost of accommodating animals in hotels is high, and she envisions a mobile spay-neuter unit to provide essential care on the go. By addressing these issues, she hopes to bridge the gap in disaster relief services for both people and their beloved pets.

For those who love heartwarming stories about pets overcoming adversity, "Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey" (1993) is a must-watch. The film follows two dogs and a cat as they embark on a perilous journey across the wilderness to reunite with their family. Filled with adventure, resilience, and deep bonds between pets and humans, it’s a perfect companion to Rahel’s mission—showing just how much animals mean to the people who love them, especially in times of crisis.

Like Clara Barton, Rahel is driven by a deep sense of duty to serve others, always willing to step into disaster zones and fight for those who need help the most—whether they have two legs or four.

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- Written by Christal Harte