Director puts the Labor in Labor of Love
<<BACK

It’s no surprise that with a background working with volunteers throughout her professional training as a political organizer, Elaine Lyford-Nojima has grown Maine Coon Adoptions from an organization of 2 to over 50 volunteers in just 4 years. What is a shock is that Elaine’s seemingly limitless drive, and extraordinary work ethic has allowed MCA to place over 400 cats in loving “forever homes” all while being a volunteer herself. Every aspect of MCA is run professionally and with a tremendous amount of love for these furry miracles. From the high caliber veterinary care and socialization the cats receive prior to adoption, to the extensive screening process and thorough post adoptive follow up, the welfare of these kitties is clearly at the heart of Elaine’s efforts. Perhaps the most unique aspect of MCA is that 1/3 of cats adopted out are over 7 years of age, a fantastic statistic considering many shelter cats are euthanized simply for having what Elaine likes to call “life experience.” The perception that these cats have less value is one injustice that Elaine feels very attached to and is working to change 1 cat at a time. With 17K+ miles logged annually transporting cats and easily 70 hours a week running adoption fairs, fostering, and ongoing fundraising, its obvious this is labor. But it’s a labor of love for Elaine without question. These kitties and a whole lot of humans have so much to be thankful for because of Elaine’s hard work, dedication, and huge heart.

Susannah
Silicon Valley, East Bay, CA