By: Travis Mane
Cattyshack Cafe introduces its latest initiative, designed to inspire and engage, the 2025 Purrfect Heroes Calendar. This isn’t just another calendar for the fridge—it’s a vibrant celebration of rescue cats, community heroes, and a mission-driven business determined to make a difference. Spearheaded by Cattyshack Cafe’s “purrprietors,” For Amber Redfern and Andrew Townsend, this project serves as a reflection of connection and creativity.
The calendar features adorable, adoptable kittens from the Gulf Coast Humane Society alongside the dedicated first responders of the San Carlos Park Fire Department. Each photo radiates charm, humor, and a sense of purpose, reminding everyone that behind every adorable whiskered face lies a chance for a better future. Amber and Andrew not only coordinated this project, but also carefully designed it, with each page reflecting a story of hope and heroism.
All proceeds from the 2025 Purrfect Heroes Calendar will be directed toward three causes close to their hearts: the Gulf Coast Humane Society, the San Carlos Park Fire & Rescue Benevolent Association, and Cattyshack Cafe’s ongoing mission to foster meaningful change within their community. For Amber and Andrew, this calendar represents the culmination of years spent building a business that thrives on giving back.
Amber’s journey from a successful 18-year career in higher education to co-owning a cat cafe might seem unconventional, but her motivation is rooted in a deep desire to solve societal issues and advocate for animals. Partnering with Andrew, whose decade as a professional poker player left him seeking a greater purpose, the duo crafted a business model that blends fun with philanthropy. Together, they have worked to help rescue animals find loving homes, highlighting their dedication to animal welfare.
The creation of the calendar reflects their innovative approach to community engagement. By collaborating with local organizations and highlighting real heroes, they’ve tapped into something universal: the desire to make a difference. Firefighters and kittens may seem like an unlikely duo, but through Amber and Andrew’s lens, they become the ideal team to inspire action and support.
The Purrfect Heroes Calendar isn’t just a local treasure. Cat lovers and supporters from anywhere can join the movement by purchasing a calendar online or sharing the project on social media. Every sale and post helps amplify their mission, connecting rescue animals with loving homes and fostering goodwill across communities.
Cattyshack Cafe’s impact doesn’t stop with the calendar. Their cafe is a hub of innovation, providing a welcoming space where guests can relax, enjoy a latte, and interact with adoptable cats. By combining entrepreneurship with advocacy, Amber and Andrew have created a blueprint for how small businesses can drive meaningful change.
Their recognition as nominees for FGCU’s 2025 Alumni Business of the Year underscores their success. Andrew’s involvement with the university, including obtaining seed funding through the FGCU Runway Program, has supported the growth of Cattyshack Cafe as a community-focused initiative.
In addition to adoptions, Cattyshack Cafe supports mental health initiatives, assists grieving children, and partners with events such as Legacy Pro Sport’s Annual Pickleball Gala. For Amber and Andrew, each connection made—whether between a cat and its new home or a person and a cause they care about—holds special meaning.
The Purrfect Heroes Calendar encapsulates everything Cattyshack Cafe stands for: creativity, compassion, and community. Amber and Andrew’s work in fostering partnerships and supporting local organizations highlights their focus on making a positive impact through community efforts.
As the 2025 Purrfect Heroes Calendar hits shelves, it’s clear that Cattyshack Cafe isn’t just a business—it’s a movement. Amber and Andrew’s efforts in innovation and philanthropy reflect their passion for making a positive difference, blending creativity and compassion in their work.
To support the mission or snag a copy of the calendar, visit Cattyshack Cafe’s website and join the growing community of cat lovers and changemakers. Each purchase helps support brighter futures for both animals and people.
Published by Stephanie M.
