As 2025 comes to a close, I’m taking a moment to reflect on where we’ve been, where we’re going, and the power of leadership in the community cat world. After over 30 years of working in cat welfare—and nearly a decade hosting the Community Cats Podcast—I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come. But we’re not done yet.

Today, I want to talk about the heart of what we do, the people who make it happen, and what lies ahead in 2026 as we transition into a new chapter: Community Cats Central.

A Personal Message to the Helpers

If you’re reading this, you’re likely someone who’s felt the pull of a cat in need. Maybe you’ve fed a stray, taken in a kitten, or simply wondered how to make a difference. That impulse? That desire to do more? It’s leadership in disguise.

Helping cats isn’t just about spay/neuter or feeding stations—it’s about creating change, building community, and stepping into a role that’s bigger than yourself.

Leadership Is a Calling

When someone reaches out to us about a cat in their neighborhood, they’re not just asking for advice—they’re stepping into leadership. And in 2026, I’m challenging each of you to embrace that role more fully.

You don’t need to do it all. But you do need to be realistic, strategic, and prepared. Start small. Build community connections. And yes—take care of yourself, so you can keep showing up for the cats who need you.

Community Cats Central: A New Era Begins

This past July, our podcast team sat down and asked: “What’s next?” The answer was clear. While our podcast and webinars have helped thousands, we wanted to provide on-demand, accessible education and real-time connection. The result? Community Cats Central—your new go-to hub for training, tools, and community-building resources.

What You’ll Find at Community Cats Central:

• An on-demand e-learning center with certification programs in TNR, surrender prevention, return-to-home, and more.

• Geo-targeted mastermind groups and networking events to connect with peers in your region.

• 35+ online events annually for those with a Community Cats Pass, offering consistent, strategic learning.

• A sense of belonging—because we’re stronger together.

A Culture of Positive Connection

Whether you’re brand-new or an experienced rescuer, we all benefit from positive, strategic communication. That’s why we’ve built our programs around:

• Constructive conversation—even with those who approach cat issues differently.

• Real-life problem-solving: how to reduce overpopulation, prepare for kitten season, and talk with local civic leaders.

• Sharing proof of concept—like the Newburyport TNR project that took a colony of 300 cats to zero over 16 years. (Yes, TNR works.)

Becoming the Expert

Our goal is to move you from “someone who cares” to “someone who leads.” That’s why we offer certification programs and leadership development tools, including:

• TNR Certification Workshops (Live and on-demand)

• Return-to-Home Workshops

• Surrender Prevention Training

• The Community Cat Program Management Course (In partnership with the University of the Pacific)

Our 8-week flagship program, starting January 26, 2026, is perfect for those who want to lead with strategy, sustainability, and community buy-in.

Metrics That Matter: What Does Success Look Like?

As we evolve, we want to give you tools to measure progress. Our long-term goal? 95% of cats sterilized in every target area.

Here’s what a balanced, healthy cat community looks like:

• Near-zero kitten intake at shelters

• Consistent, affordable access to spay/neuter

• Resident-led TNR efforts

• Strategic partnerships with vet clinics and municipalities

• Advocacy rooted in collaboration, not confrontation

We’ll be rolling out more guidance in 2026, so stay tuned!

Human Bonds Make the Difference

One of the most powerful aspects of this work is the friendships it forges. I’ll never forget Betty Bro—one of our early board members and most creative fundraisers. Despite living in a modest trailer, Betty raised over $10,000 a year selling handmade cat toys. Her heart and commitment were bigger than any budget.

People like Betty—and you—are what make this movement thrive.

Join Us for The Cat Conference 2026!

Mark your calendars: January 24–25, 2026 is our annual Cat Conference—a virtual gathering of passionate cat advocates from all walks of life. It’s our Woodstock. We’ll feature breakout sessions, expert speakers, and maybe even a few surprises (cat cafes, anyone?).

We may still have scholarships available, so be sure to check it out.

In Closing: Let’s Make 2026 Count

We’re standing at the edge of real, lasting change for community cats—but we can’t do it alone. With the launch of Community Cats Central, we’re more equipped than ever to give you the tools, resources, and connections you need to succeed.

Visit Community Cat Central
Subscribe to the Community Cats Podcast
Register for a Workshop

Let’s move into 2026 with purpose, positivity, and action. Because when we help just one cat, we start a ripple effect that can change everything.

Turn your passion for cats into action.
You are not alone—we’re with you every step of the way.