Mountain Grove, MO – In a town where compassion runs deep, one grassroots organization is proving that small steps can lead to life-changing results for both people and animals. The Grove Community Cat Coalition, officially founded in October 2024, is a heart-led initiative making a powerful impact on the lives of feral cats and the community members who care about them.
It all started with one person and a need too big to ignore.
“I was inspired to ‘do something’ after I became an animal control officer,” the coalition’s founder and Executive Director, Jordin Vieths, shared. “Every day, I was seeing pain, starvation, disease, and cruelty. And at the same time, I saw a community frustrated by overpopulation but feeling powerless to fix it.” That “something” grew from an idea into an organized, thriving non-profit, now led by a team of dedicated volunteers—and powered by the kindness of the people of Mountain Grove.
Since January 2024, the Grove Community Cat Coalition has successfully helped 207 cats through the humane process of TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return)—a proven method that not only curbs population growth but also improves the health and well-being of feral colonies. The group’s mission is twofold: reduce the unhoused cat population and educate the public on how to approach cat overpopulation with compassion and effectiveness.
The work isn’t easy. It takes early mornings, late nights, and tireless dedication. But it’s a labor of love, especially for Jordin, who has long had a deep-rooted passion for animals. “As a kid, I was the one nursing wild animals back to health,” she said. “That part of me never changed—but now I get to help both animals and the people who love them.” She was the kid rescuing injured birds and watching National Geographic on repeat. But it wasn’t until she became an animal control officer that she truly discovered the reward in serving both animals and her community. “Mountain Grove has helped me just as much as I’ve helped it,” she said with gratitude.
When asked who had made this dream possible, she didn’t hesitate to name Katie Reynolds, Jordin’s right-hand woman. “She was there from day one and hasn’t missed a single meeting, event, or TNR day. Katie gives 110% and has helped turn this idea into a well-oiled operation. I couldn’t do this without her.”
But the success of the coalition isn’t just about one or two people—it’s about a community coming together. “The most valuable thing I’ve learned,” Jordin said, “is how truly compassionate Mountain Grove is. Volunteers, donors, veterinarians, followers on Facebook—it takes all of us.” The Grove Community Cat Coalition is run entirely by volunteers. From donors and veterinarians to TNR trappers and local supporters, Jordin says it’s a true community effort.
As they look to the future, the Grove Community Cat Coalition remains focused on education, outreach, and spreading awareness of humane animal care. And for those doing similar work in their own towns? “Keep going. Keep educating. Keep being a voice for the voiceless. We are making a difference.”
Organizations like the Grove Community Cat Coalition remind us that goodness lives in every act of kindness, no matter how small. In Mountain Grove, it just happens to be wearing whiskers.
Follow their Facebook page to learn more about them and what they do. Find events and TNR dates there as well.
Want to Make a Difference? Sponsor a Cat!
The Grove Community Cat Coalition is now offering a unique way for supporters to directly impact the life of a Mountain Grove community cat through sponsorship.
For just $45, you can cover the cost of spay/neuter and vaccinations for a feral cat in need. But this isn’t just a donation—it’s a personal experience. Sponsors will receive email updates with photos and details about the specific cat they helped, including its TNR journey and safe return to its home territory.
You’ll even get to name your sponsored cat, and your generosity will be featured on the coalition’s Facebook page and blog, recognizing your compassion and commitment to these often-overlooked animals.
Please note: Sponsoring a cat does not mean adopting or handling the animal. These cats will continue to live as part of their community, now healthier and safer thanks to your support.
To sponsor a cat, visit:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
Be sure to include your email address in the notes section so the coalition can send your updates!
Together, even one small act—like sponsoring a single cat—can change a life. Or in the case of the Grove Community Cat Coalition, over 200 lives and counting.
