Virginia “Ginny” Jontes is the visionary behind Heidi’s Village, born from a profound connection between people and animals. Ginny’s journey began in 2005 while she was working in residential real estate. During that time, she met Joan, a recently widowed homeowner facing uncertainty about the future care of her cherished three-year-old white schnauzer, Heidi.
As fate would have it, Ginny—already a lifelong animal lover and proud schnauzer parent—saw a solution. Joan included a unique clause in the sale of her home, ensuring Ginny would care for Heidi should she ever be unable to do so. This creative agreement marked the start of a friendship between the two women, built on trust and a shared love for Heidi.
In 2010, Ginny received the call she had promised to answer: Joan had fallen ill and could no longer care for Heidi. True to her word, Ginny welcomed Heidi into her family, where she was loved and cherished until her passing in 2016. The bond between Joan, Ginny, and Heidi left a lasting impression on Ginny, inspiring the name “Heidi’s Village” and embodying the powerful human-animal bond that drives the organization’s mission.
Though Heidi’s Village officially opened its doors in 2020, the idea had taken root years earlier as Ginny worked closely with the animal welfare community. She saw firsthand the challenges faced by rescue organizations, particularly their need for affordable resources to provide for vulnerable animals. Most rescues operate with limited means, relying on foster homes and boundless passion, but lack the space and support needed to save more lives. Ginny envisioned Heidi’s Village as a solution: a place where rescues could collaborate, thrive, and save even more animals.
Ginny’s impressive background reflects her commitment to service and community. A graduate of The University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Education, Ginny has contributed to numerous organizations over the years. In 2003, she served on the Board of Directors and Special Events Committee for A New Leaf and by 2013, Ginny took on the role of Vice President of PACC911, further advancing her work in animal welfare.
Ginny’s vision and leadership continue to shape Heidi’s Village, guiding the organization as it stays true to its mission of collaboration, innovation, and advocacy. Her unwavering commitment to animals and the rescue community has laid the foundation for a lasting impact, inspiring others to join in the effort to create a positive change for animals and the community.
