Start by taking 5 to 10% of every unrestricted donation and putting it into the reserve.
$25 a month put into that reserve is a win.
$25 a month put into that reserve is a win.
Instead of asking donors to fund medical expense, have them fund a reserve for when you are rescuing new cats
take $10-$15 off of every adoption donation and put that into reserve
Take a portion of every unexpected donation and put it in there.
Take a portion of every unexpected donation and put it in there.
Be transparent… Tell people you're trying to create that reserve for emergency funds for the future to keep you going
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Lynn Mulhern
Director
Community Cat Foundation
CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-23-2025 08:17 AM
From: Anonymous Member
Subject: January Community Conversations Co-Host!
This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous
Under Money Mindsets for Animal Organizations, I would be interested if you addressed the topic of building a "reserve fund" for small non-profit rescues. We are totally funded by contributions (no government contracts) and have been trying to set aside funds to build a reserve, with modest success. What are some strategies and proven ideas for creating a reserve? We are not into "wills and bequests" but are considering promoting that option to our donor base. We do have a brokerage account to accept gifts of securities, contributions from RMDs and do promote that regularly. Thanks! (TN-based cat rescue organization)
Original Message:
Sent: 12-19-2025 01:40 PM
From: Miguel Ruelas
Subject: January Community Conversations Co-Host!
Hi Folks!
My name is Miguel Ruelas (he/they), Community Resources Manager at Pasadena Humane and I'm thrilled to kick off 2026 by joining Sheila as your Community Conversations co-host for January.
We've got some pinch hitters in this months lineup:
✅ Get Them Out, Even for a Little
✅ Money Mindset for Animal Organizations
✅ The Business Behind Lifesaving
I'm excited to dig in with you all-share space, swap ideas, and keep pushing our field toward more intentional, community-rooted work. If there's something on your mind or a topic you want to bring into the mix, drop it here!
See you on the calls!
Miguel
#CaseManagement*
#CommunityPartnerships*
#Conferences,WorkshopsandWebcasts
#Diversity,Equity,InclusionandJustice
#PetSupportServices*
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Miguel Ruelas
Community Resource Manager
Pasadena Humane Society
CA
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