Take Advantage of Scholarship Opportunities
It's important that everyone who's passionate about creating a kinder, safer world for cats in their communities can learn the skills they need to accomplish their goals and has access the most up-to-date, feline-focused information available. We're committed to making out cat-saving virtual conferences and workshops available to anyone who would like to attend.
Maddie's Fund and other generous donors make it possible to offer registrations to many of our events at no charge. That's right. Completely FREE. So if you're eager to learn but a little short on funds (or want to save those funds so you can spay the next stray you meet) sign up for a scholarship today and join our community of smart, savvy cat caretakers!
Here's how it works!
Return-to-Home Certification Workshop
March 12, 2025 | 2:00-3:30PM ET.
Leave all your preconceived notions about “dumped, abandoned, or unwanted” stray cats at the door! What if we presumed every stray cat who came to our shelters was a cherished pet with a loving home? How can we facilitate getting lost pets back to their owners without overwhelming current staff and volunteers, or tying up space with long stray holds? In this workshop, we will discuss simple, actionable ways that we can support owners of lost cats, be a resource to those who find cats, and increase the rate at which cats in our shelters are reunited with grateful families.
Surrender Prevention Certification Workshop
May 14, 2025 | 2:00-3:30PM ET.
As a Surrender Prevention Specialist, your understanding of cat behavior can be the deciding factor between a cat losing her home or staying with her family. In this session, you’ll learn the principles of surrender prevention and why they’re so effective. Feline behaviorist Dr. Rachel Geller will share real-life examples with proven results, guiding both the cat and potential surrenderer toward a happy, lasting bond.
You’ll learn compassionate strategies for empathizing with cat owners, addressing their unique limitations—whether financial, time-related, or related to patience—and tackle the three most common reasons for surrender: litter box issues, destructive scratching, and inter-cat aggression.
Take advantage of the interactive format, detailed handouts, detailed examples of effective techniques, and earn your certificate of completion after passing a short quiz. Plus gain access to an exclusive Facebook group to network with other cat-focused volunteers and professionals
2025 Online Feline Leukemia Day Conference
July 19, 2025 | 10:00AM-5:00PM EDT.
The Community Cats Podcast in partnership with the Tompkins Foundation for FeLV Advocacy will once again host the highly anticipated Online Feline Leukemia Day. This one-day event is dedicated exclusively to supporting cats affected by feline leukemia virus (FeLV), a retrovirus that impacts a cat’s immune system and makes them more vulnerable to illness. Although FeLV is often misunderstood, many cats with the virus can live fulfilling, happy lives with proper care and support.
Designed for animal shelter staff, veterinarians, caregivers, and pet parents who care for these special kitties, the event will offer insights into the latest advancements in FeLV treatment and diagnosis, along with best practices for managing FeLV-positive cats in shelter settings. Sessions will cover critical topics, including approaches to reduce virus transmission, ways to create enriching environments that enhance the well-being of FeLV-positive cats, and effective strategies for educating the public on FeLV misconceptions and care.
Expert speakers from across the animal welfare community will provide practical strategies and answer questions, equipping attendees with the knowledge needed to make a meaningful difference for cats with FeLV. This event is an invaluable opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and connect with others committed to improving the lives of FeLV-positive cats.
