The idea behind Saved by Zade originated from a personal mission formed from a special mother-daughter relationship. Many years ago, a life-changing event led founder Jodi to prioritize her daughter’s education and health in a new way. When an essential shift to homeschooling was made, Jodi looked for out-of-the box ways to empower her daughter, who at the time was suffering from poor sleep and decreased concentration. With the goal of learning together and bonding, this mother-daughter team decided to try many new things, including something neither of them had ever done before. They were going to bottle feed stray kittens. This was just the beginning of the massive volunteer work they would do together.

Little did they know, they stumbled upon an issue that was bigger than they realized. The more they knew, the more they recognized their ability to help! Over-population issues related to neutering and vaccinations were alarming and as a caring mother, Jodi’s instincts took over. The rest is history. As they learned more about life-saving techniques for kitties in need, they grew a deeper understanding of animal behavior, and fine-tuned TNVR skills for “trapping/neutering/vaccinating/returning” kitties. 

What started as a personal project with her daughter helping kittens, has now transformed to a full-time movement in the community. As it relates to cats, Jodi says: “In the same way my daughter depended on me in a time of need, I now feel that from the community.” What has pushed this non-profit forward is the obvious and concerning need for better health for kitties in Greater Lansing and the surrounding areas. Awareness of the preventable plight that they face is key! 

When volunteers, community members, and followers help to control overpopulation issues, they are helping achieve our ultimate mission, and acting in the Spirit of Zade.