My Nonprofit Reviews

Hours before sunrise, the pitter-patter of furry little feet can be heard up and down the halls at the Hearts That Purr feline retirement home. Kitties like an early breakfast and dedicated people are there to serve it, 365 days a year. Later in the morning, cats lounge around the house, some in private or semi-private rooms, depending on temperament and unique needs. Everywhere, they find fun toys, comfy beds, and cat trees for play and napping. Soon I’ll coming through to serve lunch (a popular activity among the residents) and dispense medications (somewhat less popular). Volunteers are in and out all day, spending time to play, brush, love, and otherwise tend to the 20+ elderly feline residents. They along with a tiny part-time staff dedicate their time and energy to the kitties left behind.

The concept of Hearts That Purr serves both feline and human populations. The Guardian program allows owners like me to plan bequeathments and posthumous gifting, offering peace of mind while I am living and care for my cats when I am gone. Such funding provides for specific cats that might outlive me, with generous gifts (along with general donations from kind-hearted supporters) enabling rescue of other cats such as Antonio, Spike, Tyler, and others. These cats were pulled from municipal shelters following death or incapacitation of owners who did not make long term plans for their cats; they now enjoy residency at Hearts That Purr or home life with a senior cat lover in the Senior Kittizens For Senior Citizens long term foster program.

I personally know of no other organization quite like Hearts That Purr. It is an honor, and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, for me to serve as Feline Wellness Director and provide these cats with personal care on a daily basis. I thank the wonderful cat lovers who have, in so many ways, helped us to provide for resident cats and enrich their golden years. Meanwhile they enrich our own lives immeasurably. Please look into the benefits of the Guardian Program, or a similar program if it exists in your area, to ensure the future for your cats even after you are gone.