We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lizzie Lewis a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Lizzie, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
My strong work ethic is deeply rooted in my family values. Growing up, my parents exemplified tireless dedication, instilling in us the importance of hard work from an early age. My father’s venture into running a restaurant became a family affair, with each of my siblings and me taking on our first jobs there.
Beginning in the bustling kitchen, we gained valuable experience before transitioning to the dining room. Working in a restaurant is hard work, but the lessons I absorbed during those times have become ingrained in me. Concepts like hustling, efficiency, and the adage “when it’s time to lean, it’s time to clean” have become enduring principles that I carry with me, transcending any job I undertake.
Being part of a team with a shared objective resonates with me. I find genuine satisfaction in contributing my fair share, a mindset that stems from the invaluable work experiences and principles instilled in me during those early days in the restaurant.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
In 2015, I began my journey fostering kittens through Los Angeles Animal Services. Little did I know about the pressing “cat problem” in Los Angeles, and my involvement as a foster and shelter volunteer opened my eyes to the challenges many like-minded individuals faced. Recognizing the need for additional help and support, I took it upon myself to establish a rescue, initially focused on assisting fellow fosters affiliated with the shelter. As we started small, our network of fosters gradually expanded.
My mission is clear—to provide the incredible people dedicating their time and energy to foster these cats and kittens with the necessary resources and support for their well-being and help them be as successful as possible finding their charges their forever homes. Fostering animals is rewarding and we want them to have the most positive experience possible.
In 2022, we introduced our charming adoption vehicle, affectionately named Camp Kitty—a 1977 Trillium fiberglass camper. This mobile unit ventures into communities, offering people the chance to meet potential furry family members, discuss fostering kittens, and simply indulge in some much-needed kitten therapy. In these stressful times, a 10-minute kitten snuggle can work wonders for your well-being!
Looking ahead, our excitement peaks as we anticipate the future. Our vision for 2024 is to launch our very own adoption center—a welcoming space where individuals can meet foster cats and kittens, connect with our fosters, partake in various activities, including yoga and crafting, and even shop for merchandise. It will serve as a central hub for our foster families, providing care for their kittens and a convenient location for foster supplies. We can’t wait for you to be part of this experience!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Maintaining an open-minded approach is paramount, especially when acknowledging that others may possess valuable insights. In the world of running a business, the early stages often demand that you wear various hats. Therefore, it is crucial to be receptive to the perspectives of your team members, as they might offer innovative and more efficient approaches.
For those venturing into business, my foremost advice is to assemble a stellar team—one comprised of individuals who not only complement your skills but also challenge your perspectives. The true alchemy occurs when diverse minds converge and collaborate.
However, beyond fostering an environment of creative friction, expressing genuine appreciation for your team is of utmost importance. Taking the time to communicate gratitude for their contributions, dedication, and time invested in the collective goals of the business creates a positive and motivating atmosphere. In acknowledging their efforts, you not only build a stronger team but also cultivate a workplace culture that thrives on mutual respect and support. This recognition not only boosts morale but also solidifies the bonds within the team, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
We are continually on the lookout for enthusiastic collaborators who share our passion, whether it’s forging partnerships with venues or events to host Camp Kitty, seeking volunteers adept in graphics, photography, social media or administrative tasks, or welcoming new foster homes for our beloved cats and kittens. If you have a knack for creativity, a love for feline companions, or a desire to contribute to our cause, we invite you to get in touch through our website at www.kittyofangels.org. Your involvement could make a meaningful impact in our mission to create a positive and nurturing environment for these animals in need.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kiittyofangels.org
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kitty.of.angels
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kittyofangels
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/kitty-of-angels-inc
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@kittyofangels
