Nominated by Tara Westlie.

Karyn developed AniMeals as a means to feed the many homeless, feral, shelter and foster animals in Missoula and adjoining counties. With very little media exposure, Karyn has relied on word-of-mouth, fliers and booths at the local Farmers' Market to inform the public of her efforts to feed animals. Karyn's dedication to feeding the animals of Missoula has inspired many to help, myself included. As word spreads, more and more individuals come forward to donate food, toys, kitty litter and the like to AniMeals, saving many animals that would have otherwise suffered from hunger and neglect. Karyn is my hero. She has managed to accomplish that which I had never thought possible and now a food bank for animals is a reality in Missoula. Combined with pet owner education, spay and neuter campaigns, stray rescue and an active pet fostering program, Karyn's organization inspires me to continue my efforts to help the animals of Missoula and the nation. Therefore, I believe that Karyn deserves to be the Animal Planet Hero of the Year.