March 21, 2023

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Caley Harr, animal welfare manager at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society.

Name: Caley Harr

Age: 26

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

The climate — as crazy as this sounds, I love winter — my home that I purchased recently and love dearly and my job keep me here.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I greatly enjoy the variations of things that come up on a day-to-day basis. It is never consistent, always changing and keeps me on my toes. Not a dull moment in sight. Of course, I have to mention the animals and the few that have come home with me in my time employed here too.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I sought out an animal-related job in 2017 and landed at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society as an adoption counselor. I fell in love with the inner workings and operations as well as the animals.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Captivating, bustling, kindhearted.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I am a liver transplant recipient! I received my transplant when I was 17 after years of struggles with medical illness. It pushed me to “grow up” quickly and taught me a lot of independence and care for my own well-being.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

Educating others on proper animal care or handling; participating with other local rescues and agencies.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

This is a tough one! If I am being honest, I want Spezia back. It was my all-time favorite restaurant. Our community offers so much as is.

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

This is easy — I would use this for a cat-specific boarding/day care facility! Dedicated to quiet and cuddles with citizens’ cats just like dog boarding facilities. Cats don’t want to hear dogs barking when they’re on “vacation” too!