By: Travis Mane
Brimming with good causes, the 2025 Purrfect Heroes Calendar features a collection of causes, offering a heartwarming blend of creativity and compassion. Cattyshack Cafe, a beloved hub for cat enthusiasts and coffee lovers, has once again found a way to tug at heartstrings while making a difference. This calendar reflects themes of community, courage, and second chances.
At the helm of this charming initiative are Amber Redfern and Andrew Townsend, the dynamic “purrprietors” of Cattyshack Cafe. Known for their ingenuity and deep empathy, they’ve created more than a business; they’ve built a sanctuary for rescue cats and the people who adore them. With the Purrfect Heroes Calendar, Amber and Andrew have combined two unlikely yet harmonious forces: adorable rescue kittens and the brave firefighters of the San Carlos Park Fire Department.
Each month of the calendar offers a glimpse into a world of possibility, pairing a photogenic kitten with a heroic firefighter in stunning, professionally captured images. Yet beyond the surface appeal lies a deeper purpose. Every dollar from calendar sales will support the Gulf Coast Humane Society, the San Carlos Park Fire & Rescue Benevolent Association, and Cattyshack Cafe’s own community-driven mission to combat shelter overcrowding.
The idea for the calendar was born out of Amber and Andrew’s shared belief in creating connections. Amber, with 18 years in higher education, always dreamed of building something that made a tangible impact. Her decision to leave behind a traditional career to focus on animal rescue speaks volumes about her determination to make a difference. Andrew, a former professional poker player, traded a high-stakes lifestyle for a mission-driven one, seeking to transform lives rather than merely playing for a win. Together, their journey has become a story of passion, purpose, and partnership.
Bringing this project to life was no small feat. Amber and Andrew carefully planned every detail, from selecting adoptable kittens from the Gulf Coast Humane Society to partnering with the San Carlos Park Fire Department for the photoshoots. The result is a calendar that feels vibrant and alive, each page radiating warmth and inspiration. It’s a visual reminder of the power of collaboration and the magic that happens when a community comes together.
Cattyshack Cafe has long been a champion of second chances. Since its opening, the cafe has facilitated thousands of adoptions, providing a lifeline for cats in need. But its impact goes beyond numbers. It’s about the stories: families welcoming a new furry member, children learning the joys of animal companionship, and rescue cats finding their forever homes.
The calendar is also a reflection of the cafe’s broader mission. Cattyshack Cafe isn’t just a local treasure—it’s a movement. With an online store offering nationwide access to the Purrfect Heroes Calendar and a thriving social media presence, the cafe’s reach extends far beyond its walls. Every purchase, like, and share helps amplify the message that every small act can lead to meaningful change.
Amber and Andrew’s vision is as ambitious as it is heartfelt. From supporting local charities to collaborating with mental health initiatives, they’re constantly finding new ways to make an impact. The cafe regularly sponsors events that promote wellness and connection, such as grief support programs for children and awareness campaigns like Legacy Pro Sport’s Annual Pickleball Gala. For them, it’s all about building bridges—between people, animals, and the community.
At the core of their mission is a simple yet profound belief: “It’s about the connection, not purrfection.” This guiding principle shines through in everything they do, from creating a cozy space where visitors can unwind with a latte and a lap cat, to spearheading projects like the Purrfect Heroes Calendar.
For women balancing busy lives, this initiative serves as a reminder of the power of nurturing—whether it’s through acts of kindness, fostering connections, or simply making time for what matters. Amber’s journey from a traditional career to an entrepreneurial path resonates with those seeking purpose beyond the everyday. The calendar reflects the idea of finding beauty in imperfection and joy in unexpected places.
Looking ahead, Amber and Andrew envision Cattyshack Cafe as more than a destination—it’s a foundation for something bigger. They see themselves expanding their rescue efforts, deepening their community impact, and exploring new ventures that align with their values. With every adoption and every project, they’re not just imagining a better future—they’re creating it.
The Purrfect Heroes Calendar is now available for purchase online through Cattyshack Cafe’s website. Whether displayed in a home office, gifted to a friend, or shared with a fellow cat lover, the calendar is a tangible way to support the mission and celebrate the magic of rescue animals.
For Amber and Andrew, the calendar represents more than just a project; it symbolizes hope. It reflects the belief that when people come together, small actions can contribute to meaningful change. Through their dedication to creating change, they demonstrate how kindness and love can have a lasting impact.
Published by Stephanie M.