For over three decades, Chris and José have shared a life together rooted in partnership, kindness, and community. José has spent his working life as a financial advisor, bringing a steady and analytical lens to everything he does, while Chris, a retired hairstylist and former Provincetown restaurant owner, is known for his skills in the kitchen and his love of hosting dinner parties. The two first met at a Christmas party, then reconnected years later and the rest was history! Thirty-four years later, they continue to adventure through life together.

Though it’s hard to believe, animals were not always a central part of their lives. José did not grow up with pets, and although Chris always gravitated toward the dogs in his neighborhood, he never had one of his own. After they began dating, Chris gently (and persistently) raised the idea of adopting a dog together. It took 15 years before José agreed, and when he did, Chris made him put it in writing and sign his name. That decision changed the trajectory of their lives forever.

Their first dog, Griffin, was medically fragile. For 19 months, Chris and José structured their entire life around his care, even coordinating travel plans based on how close they were to veterinary hospitals. Loving him for his short life opened their eyes to the struggles that animals can face and inspired them to do more.

After Griffin’s passing, their home did not stay empty for long. Cooper came next, followed soon after by Abby, who they met unexpectedly during a routine grooming visit back at the rescue. Abby has since passed, but Cooper, now 16, remains a beloved reminder of the joy that rescue animals bring. Through these experiences, animal welfare became not just something they cared about, but something they felt responsible for supporting.

Over the years their annual contributions grew into deeper involvement. A tour with ARL’s former president, Mary Nee, and current president, Dr. Edward Schettino, proved pivotal. Soon after, José joined ARL’s Board of Directors. Chris has been a steadfast supporter of his board service, sharing in the belief that ARL’s work truly matters.

Their decision to include ARL in their estate plans reflects both their values and José’s understanding of long-term investment. They see their legacy gift as an opportunity to create meaningful, lasting impact. Serving on the Investment Committee has reinforced for José how powerful these gifts can be over time. “A dollar when you’re gone will do far more work than a dollar today”, José reflects.

For Chris and José, legacy giving is about ensuring that this kind of compassionate, practical work continues long after they are gone. Through their planned gift, they hope to help build a future where animals are protected, families are supported, and kindness remains at the center of ARL’s mission.

Did you know August is National Make-A-Will Month?

Just as animals have touched your life, you can forever touch the lives of animals by including the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) in your will or financial plans.

Learn how to leave your print and make more than a lifetime of impact for animals.

When you include ARL in your Will or other plans, you become a member of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society® and join the company of compassionate supporters like Chris and José , who want their dedication to the well-being of animals to continue long into the future.

Have you included, or are you thinking of including ARL in your will? Let us know so we can thank you! Please contact Jackie at jsmith@arlboston.org.

Photo credit: Sean Crane Photography