Catalyzing Change in Community Cat Care with Dawn Benefiel, Executive Director, Indy Neighborhood Cats

The Community Cats Podcast

“Without dreaming big and showing people what we think is needed, we’ll never get that dial changed and we need that to change mightily.”

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie’s Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and Tomahawk Traps.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dawn Benefiel, founder of Indy Neighborhood Cats, as she shares her journey from encountering stray kittens to orchestrating an essential shift in community cat management. This episode delves into how Dawn's initial act of kindness led to the creation of a strategic plan aimed at remodeling animal welfare in Indianapolis. Through her story, we explore the challenges and breakthroughs in shaping a city-wide approach that not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a sustainable path forward for cat welfare.

Discover how Indy Neighborhood Cats, under Dawn’s leadership, has developed advanced programs to comply with local ordinances while significantly improving the lives of thousands of cats through trapping, neutering, and vaccinating. The conversation also highlights the organization’s strategic responses to the pandemic’s impact on animal welfare, showcasing how thoughtful planning and community engagement can lead to impactful results.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Reimagining animal welfare through community-centric programs
• Pandemic impact on animal services
• Effective community outreach
• Strategic planning for increased capacity

Resources from this episode:

• Indy Neighborhood Cats Website - https://www.indyneighborhoodcats.org/
• Indy Neighborhood Cats Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/indyneighborhoodcats

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