Fresh Faces of Philanthropy 2025: Morgan Huelsman

Profession: Digital director, The Bobby Bones Show

Nonprofit: Abe’s Garden Community

When Morgan Huelsman adopted Remi from the Kansas Humane Society, she immediately knew they shared a special bond. A frequent dog-fosterer, Morgan had met her share of canine personalities, and there was something special about this adorable cavapoo-chihuahua mix. Watching Remi engage with her grandfather in his final years, Morgan knew she wanted to find a way to share that sweet connection with others.

After they relocated to Nashville, where Morgan works as digital director for The Bobby Bones Show, the pair trained at Therapy ARC to prepare Remi to visit schools, hospitals, nursing homes and crisis situations as a therapy animal. Remi easily earned her certification, and the duo paid a visit to Abe’s Garden Community. 

“Both Remi and I felt a connection in Abe’s Garden that was something magical,” Morgan says. “So we started becoming a frequent volunteer team every month.”

On the campus of the Abe’s Garden senior lifestyle community, Morgan and 10-year-old Remi participate in musical events, wine-and-cheese parties, pet holidays and movie afternoons. They often visit the organization’s memory-care facility, helping residents recall fond stories of their own pets. 

“Part of my career is interviewing people, so talking with the residents at Abe’s Garden about their lives is second nature for me,” Morgan says, adding that her relationships there remind her to not sweat the small stuff and to appreciate everyday joys.

“Morgan brings light and warmth wherever she goes,” says Valerie Snider, life engagement manager at Abe’s Garden. “She’s a beautiful example of what it means to lead with kindness.”

Working with Remi at Abe’s Garden has also prompted Morgan to advocate for seniors — encouraging volunteers to get involved, create community, and reduce loneliness and isolation. “Getting visitors can make the difference in a good or bad day for the residents,” Morgan says. “Residents truly light up whenever Remi and I visit, and I would love for the residents to experience that same feeling multiple times a day, every day.”