About us.
The Shed Thrift is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the compassionate people who care for them. Our mission is built on a unique collaboration between pet owners and their veterinarians, working together to provide support when it’s needed most.
We partner with local veterinary offices to develop programs that assist pet owners facing financial hardship. In many cases, a pet owner may receive difficult news—such as the need for life-saving surgery or ongoing medical treatment that they simply cannot afford. This situation is especially critical for individuals on fixed incomes, including many seniors who rely on their pets for companionship, comfort, and emotional support.
Too often, the only option presented in these cases is euthanasia.
Through our partnership, veterinarians can offer hope by saying, “We may have a solution. Our office works with a local nonprofit called The Shed Thrift.”
When appropriate, The Shed Thrift steps in under specific guidelines to evaluate each situation. If both the pet and owner meet the criteria, we provide financial assistance to help cover the cost of necessary treatment – giving pets a second chance and allowing families to stay together.
Our Amazing Team
Our dedicated team is committed to creating an elegant, welcoming, and visually engaging thrift store experience while delivering meaningful support through strong partnerships with pet owners and veterinarians. Together, we strive to ensure that every pet receives the care they need to live a healthy, high-quality life.
Jean Piazza
Co-Founder | President
Jean brings nearly five years of experience as a ReStore Manager for Habitat for Humanity, where she successfully led two locations. Her strengths in creative design, organization, and team leadership drive both operational excellence and exceptional customer experiences. From sourcing inventory to front-line service, every detail is handled with care.
Raised around antiques and secondhand treasures, Jean developed an early appreciation for sustainability and the philosophy of “waste not, want not.” She also holds a Law Degree from Nova Southeastern University.
Evan Kaplan
Co-Founder | Vice President
Evan first connected with Jean while volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, where their complementary skills quickly stood out. A lifelong treasure hunter and versatile problem-solver, Evan brings hands-on expertise to every aspect of the business – from installations to custom builds – eliminating the need for outside contractors. He has also successfully run a dog-walking business for over ten years, reflecting a deep, shared commitment to animal advocacy.
Evan holds an MBA from Nova Southeastern University.
Nancy Hitman
Manager
Nancy plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability across both volunteer coordination and store inventory, with hands-on involvement in every aspect of operations. While her contributions are invaluable, it is her beloved dog Ruby who truly captures everyone’s attention.
Nancy holds a BFA in Fine Arts and Art History from the University of Colorado and is currently a working artist in South Florida.
Ruby
Director of Operations
Ruby is the beloved store mascot and proof that every dog is special—though Ruby takes it to another level, especially with a personality strikingly similar to Nancy’s.
She proudly holds a PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in Cuteness from Pawvard University.