All about us
Caring for Cats Minnesota
Caring for Cats, Inc. is a volunteer-driven, no-kill, cat-centric cat shelter. Since 1999, we have provided a home-like “catmosphere” for cats and kittens while helping them find their forever families.
Over 95% of our shelter cats and kittens continue to find homes on an annual basis and we contribute to the community through our special programs.
Our Together Furever program helps ensure special needs cats can stay in their loving homes where they are cared for and happy.
Our Cat Tales – Kids Reading to Cats Program brings children ages 6 to 13 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.
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.
Minnesota Kennel License Number – MN420606
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 2005. Visit their website to learn about their services.
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!
Interested in becoming a shelter partner?
Caring for Cats appreciates the support we get from the local community. Please contact us to learn more about business partnership opportunities.
MEET OUR DIRECTORS
ShannaLee Horvik – Director of Operations and Development
I’m here to support the incredible volunteers behind the scenes with my experience in operations, communications, and digital strategy so our volunteers, adoptive families, and cats have a great experience with our shelter. I believe every cat deserves the kind of safety, comfort, and love that Caring for Cats provides while they wait for their forever home.
Joan Gecik – Board President
I am formerly the Executive Director of The Catholic Cemeteries, retired as 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.
Wanda Mies – Secretary
I found my cat companion at Caring for Cats by chance. I was impressed with the shelter’s bright and clean environment, the quality of care given to each cat, and the shelter’s focus on ensuring each adopter found a cat whose personality would fit them. Seeing the passion of the volunteers inspired me to give back; using the skills and experience I have developed over 30 years in the financial services industry.
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.
We are currently looking to grow our board! We are seeking a Treasurer as well as general board members who can provide high-level organzational governance. The board generally meets four times a year and this is a remote opportunity. If you are interested, please contact us at cfc@caringforcatsmn.org.
CARING FOR CATS FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
We are transparent about our numbers and are fiscally responsible with your donations.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead