Counterpart Aviary is a community-driven nonprofit focused on changing the rescue game from the inside out through rescue, education, and ethical adoption.

We believe birds are forever companions, not disposable pets, and strive to make support, education, and responsible rehoming more accessible and judgment-free for everyone.

Our mission is not only to help birds find the right homes, but to help people successfully keep and understand the animals they already love.

Meet the Team

McKenna Gilligan

FOUNDER & CEO

McKenna is the founder and CEO of Counterpart Aviary, a community-driven nonprofit built from a lifelong passion for animal rescue and advocacy. Her love for birds began in elementary school with a pair of parakeets and has continued to grow ever since, eventually inspiring her to create a rescue focused on education, accessibility, and judgment-free support for bird owners and adopters alike.
Alongside her experience working as a veterinary nurse, McKenna brings over 15 years of experience in communications, training, technology, and call-center management — skills that help shape Counterpart Aviary’s strong focus on community outreach and support. Outside of rescue work, she enjoys spending time with her horses, dogs, and of course, her flock of birds.
Mitchy Kiick

BOARD MEMBER

Mitchy Kiick is a board member at Counterpart Aviary and a lifelong animal lover with a deep passion for both animal welfare and social justice. With 13 years of experience as a veterinary technician and receptionist — primarily in close-knit small clinic environments — she brings extensive hands-on knowledge, compassion, and calm professionalism to the team. Over the past four years, she has worked closely with birds ranging from tiny parakeets to large macaws.
Known as the sweet to McKenna’s spice, Mitchy has an incredible ability to bring warmth, understanding, and balance to difficult situations. Originally from Texas, she shares her home with a small army of cats, three dogs, and a love for horses. Outside of rescue work, she enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her pups.
Tom Dupuis

BOARD MEMBER

Tom Dupuis is a board member at Counterpart Aviary known for his hardworking nature, quick wit, and ability to make just about anyone feel welcome. Originally from Rueil-Malmaison, Tom brings years of experience in retail management and training, with a strong talent for leadership, communication, and helping teams succeed.
While he’d probably tell you he’s “not really an animal person,” those closest to him know he has a natural knack for connecting with animals — especially his two beloved cats, Vee and Joule. Tom brings humor, practicality, and steady support to the team, along with a surprisingly soft heart hidden beneath his sarcastic charm. In his free time, he enjoys gaming, working with his hands, and appreciating the simple enjoyable things in life.