Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanne Berman and Susan Davis.
The Kittendales™ Calendar project was conceived in early 2007 when the board of directors at Hull Seaside Animal Rescue was brainstorming how to raise money for their cat shelter. It was decided it would be a good idea to put together a calendar of men and cats. The concept was proposed by Susan Davis, a board member, to her sister, Joanne Berman, a photographer. Joanne volunteered her services and together they launched “Kittendales”!
In the Spring of 2007, their hunt for a few good men began. The response from the guys was overwhelming. Their willingness to donate their time, and desire to be a part of this grass-roots project, for the benefit of the kitties, was extraordinary!
Hull Seaside Animal Rescue, in Hull Massachusetts, is a non-profit, no-kill cat shelter that rescues, houses, and places cats in need. HSAR relies solely on fundraising, grants, and donations.
HSAR has found “forever homes” for hundreds of cats since the year 2000. In 2015, with the help of proceeds from the Kittendales Calendar, HSAR purchased its own permanent shelter.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In the early years, we had to learn how to put together a high-quality calendar without any support. We were able to find many gracious people who helped out for no fee, especially our designer Steve Parrish. The models were willing to donate their time as well, and the word began to spread.
Our challenge is that we have to pay for the printing, and as a non-profit organization we have limited funds and resources. Without marketing resources, we’ve had to rely on social media, such as Facebook, in order to increase sales.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Kittendales – what should we know?
The Kittendales Calendar is 100% volunteer project. Starting in the Spring, it requires finding models, coordinating photo shoots, working with the graphic designer and printer, all of which culminates in the Fall with a finished calendar.
Every penny of the $20 donation for the calendar goes directly to Hull Seaside Animal Rescue and the day to day care of the cats. We have shipped calendars all over the world, including Japan, Australia, and Iceland.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Social media has been important in getting the word out there. The generosity of the models and people involved have been invaluable.
Pricing:
- $20 per Kittendales Calendar
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kittendales.com
- Phone: 617-697-2956
- Email: kittendales@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kittendales-Calendar-288927304534735/
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