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!
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 Kitten Conference
June 7-8, 2025 | 10:00AM-5:00PM EDT.
Kittens require specialized care, which is why Community Cats Podcast and The National Kitten Coalition have partnered to present a conference dedicated exclusively to caring for the tiniest felines. Over this two-day event, animal shelter professionals, caregivers, fosters, and kitten enthusiasts will come together to deepen their knowledge and sharpen skills for raising healthy kittens and running successful kitten programs.
Sessions will cover a wide range of topics, from socializing feral kittens for adoption and managing foster programs to exploring innovative initiatives that empower communities to care for kittens of any age. Featured speakers include respected experts in kitten care, representing a wealth of experience from across the animal welfare community.
This form is currently closed for submissions.
Return-to-Home Certification Workshop
July 30, 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.
