Nicole Navarro
Founder & Executive Director
Our Team
Behind Pawsitive Beginnings is a dedicated team committed to giving rescued foxes safety, consistency, and lifelong care. From daily sanctuary work to education, outreach, and healing programs, every person helps protect the foxes and support the mission behind them.
Nicole Navarro
Founder & Executive Director
Patricia Navarro
Treasurer
Zachary James
President
Founder & Executive Director
Originally from Pennsylvania, Nicole grew up on a horse farm where animals were a constant part of everyday life. Growing up surrounded by horses and nature helped shape her deep appreciation for animals and the unique connections they create with people. Those early experiences laid the foundation for what would later become her life's work.
After relocating to the Florida Keys, Nicole was presented with a unique opportunity to volunteer at the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Animal Farm. While there, she met foxes living at the farm, an encounter that would ultimately change the course of her life. Drawn to their intelligence, personalities, and often misunderstood nature, she quickly developed a deep fascination with the species.
Determined to create a safe and permanent place for foxes in need, Nicole founded Pawsitive Beginnings with the belief that every animal deserves dignity, compassion, and a chance to live free from exploitation. Her vision remains simple: to create a world where animals once viewed as commodities are instead seen for who they truly are — individuals deserving of care, respect, and love.
Treasurer
Patricia oversees the day-to-day financial stewardship of Pawsitive Beginnings, making sure every donated dollar reaches the foxes it was meant for. Her work spans budgeting, reporting, and the quiet operational backbone that keeps a small sanctuary running with care.
President
Zachary brings the long-view perspective to Pawsitive Beginnings, helping shape the sanctuary's growth, partnerships, and education work across the Florida Keys. He believes in showing up, doing the work, and being honest about what is needed.