All about us!
Caring for Cats Minnesota
Caring for Cats, Inc. is a no-kill shelter and foster network for cats and kittens. Our organization provides a home-like “catmosphere” for 35-40 cats within the shelter. We also have 20-30 cats and kittens living in foster homes throughout the year.
Over 95% of our shelter cats and kittens continue to find homes on an annual basis. We also successfully maintain two community programs.
One is a partnership with Maplewood’s Gladstone Community Center and Meals on Wheels to provide seniors and other people on fixed incomes with supplies for their cats. It’s possible to donate directly to this program HERE.
The other is our Cat Tales – Kids Reading to Cats Program where children ages 6 to 13 can come into the shelter and read to the kitties. This gives kids the opportunity to practice their reading in a non-judgmental environment and our kitties love engaging with children. Learn more about Cat Tales HERE.
We are organized for charitable and educational purposes to help cats, and we operate within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended.
Vision
Every cat finds a loving forever home.
Mission and Purpose
Caring for Cats pays loving attention to the whole well-being of the cats in our care—-physical, emotional, and social—-so that they enjoy a long and happy life.
We provide the care and resources necessary to bring cats and their human companions together including:
- A clean, safe shelter that facilitates play, stimulation, and socialization
- Supported foster families
- Holistic healthcare for cats’ minds and bodies
- Community events, engagement, education, and awareness
Values
We seek to see the world through the eyes of cats.
We are powered by dedicated, passionate volunteers.
We care about the impact we have on people and the planet.
We constantly seek innovative ways to meet our mission.
We are financially responsible and transparent.
Our work is life-affirming for cats and families alike.
SHELTER PARTNERS
TLC Vet Clinic & CFC Save Lives Together
TLC Veterinary Hospital in Oakdale has been a vital partner of CFC’s since 2002. https://tlcveterinaryhospital.com/
Trade Press, Inc. is a full-service printing company located in White Bear Lake, MN.
They have been in the printing business since 1984, and provide outstanding personal and reliable service. Trade press works hard for Caring for Cats, and we thank them!
MEET OUR DIRECTORS
Cori Griesgraber – Executive Director
Cats have always held a dear place in my heart and in my life. I am impressed by the level of care provided and the focus on the entire well-being of the cats at Caring for Cats, as well as the dedication and passion of the volunteers and support from the community.
Carole Hyder – President, Finance Committee
I have been an international Feng Shui consultant, speaker, author and trainer since 1992. I love Caring for Cats because of the heart-felt dedication by everyone involved to make each cat or kitten feel loved and special.
George Wilson – Treasurer
I am a husband, father, grandfather and teacher who has always had cats and grandcats in my life. I think it is important to be of service in the world and can’t think of a better way to do that than being part of the Caring for Cats team.
Dr. Sue Swanson – Director
I was one of the founders of Caring for Cats and currently own and operate the Cat Care Clinic in Mahtomedi. I continue to provide supplementary veterinary services to the cats in the shelter. I am a cat lover who has dedicated my life and career to helping cats live happy, healthy, and long lives.
Kaylen Broms – Development
I am a huge animal lover and have been working professionally in animal welfare since 2017. I am excited to serve with Caring for Cats and love their unique approach to shelter life in Minnesota.
Ema Corhani – Development
I am a nonprofit fundraiser working in Housing Stability and Emergency Services. Caring for Cats is very dear to me because of the dignified way the cats are taken care of and the unwavering support from our community.
Joan Gecik – Director
I am presently the Executive Director of The Catholic Cemeteries, though I am looking forward to retirement in the Fall of 2023. I have been a cat rescuer since I was a child and am presently the “cat mom” of 2 older kitties, both rescued as kittens, as well as a stray brought to me by a neighborhood rescue group. I have been involved in many ways with Caring for Cats since 2008 and love the volunteer-driven and no-kill mission of shelter.
Lisa Nordling – Director
I work in Global IT for an insurance company as a Business Systems Analyst. I’m fortunate to work remotely from home where I enjoy the company of our two adorable cats during the work day. I was drawn to Caring for Cats by the authentic care and attention given to diligently ensure they are ready for placement and adoption. In looking for additional ways to assist the shelter beyond donations, service on the Board is an excellent way to give back.
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