Kelley Meyer, one of our steadfast volunteers, recruited co-workers from Intel in Folsom to join in the fun and help with this community event. The volunteers had different roles -- some supervised a cat; some painted whiskers on little faces; some took photographs of the students with the "LapCats." One Intel volunteer, DebbyDamon, said

From left to right, Intel volunteers Donna Jones, Robin Schwartz,  Janice Lopez (standing in back), and Debby  Damon. Children, from left to right, Eric, Cameron, Cammy, and Collin. LapCats Joy, Anastasia, and Clyde.

enthusiastically, "Kids and cats, this is right up my ally for volunteering my time!"

Tracy Kirsten, "LapCats" Coordinator, spoke to the students about cats and the different sounds that they make. She discussed "meowing, purring and hissing" and the students all joined in to demonstrate they could make these sounds, too.

The "LapCats" featured at this event included Felicity, Sonny, Clyde, Joy, and Anastasia. The volunteers introduced the cats one by one and told a little something about them. The children were eager to learn more about the cats, especially their pastimes like playing with the "cat-dancer" toy, cuddling, and even walking on a leash!

The students, wanted to spend time with each individual "LapCat." They circulated about the room to see them all and to take part in all the different activities. The volunteers, using a Polaroid camera, photographed each child separately with the "LapCat" of his/her choice.

John Bennett, Co-Founder of Folsom Feline Rescue, took some great group photographs of the students, the Intel volunteers, and the "LapCats."

Not only was this event a rewarding experience for the children but it also touched and inspired the Intel employee's who volunteered their time. Intel volunteer, Leigh Dragoon said, "It was great to see how much the children loved the cats, and how well they treated them". On the ride home, Robin Schwartz said, "The looks on the children's faces, was just great and it wasn't these cats really, it was the flood of memories of their own pets left behind that was most touching".

The morning was a happy "win-win" situation for all involved. The cats entertained the students by playing with their mouse-on-a-string toys and the students entertained the cats by giving them gentle hugs and soft pets.

Tracy thanked the students at the end of the session for giving the "LapCats" extra special love and attention. When the students were asked if the "LapCats" should come back to visit in the future, the answer was a unanimous and boisterous "Yes!" One of the classmates, Cameron, asked if the group could come back the very next day!

If you want more information about this event you may contact us at (916) 484-4099 or follow the links below.

Intel volunteer, Janice Lopez, with Collin,
Cammy, and LapCat Felicity.