Lauren Bookout brings an unwavering dedication to her role as the founder and president of Tiny Miracles Kitten Rescue (TMKR). Her journey began as an EMT/Medic in the Air Force, where she spent six years, including a pivotal year in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at a level 1 trauma center in San Antonio, TX. After leaving the Air Force, Lauren retained her EMT license for an additional four years while pursuing her educational aspirations, earning an Associate’s Degree in Biology with a focus on courses relevant to veterinary school. However, life took a different turn when her husband's acceptance into Quillen College of Medicine and their daughter's enrollment in Elementary School necessitated a shift in plans. Despite this, Lauren's passion for helping those in need persisted, leading her to foster for a local neonatal kitten rescue. When this rescue closed its doors, Lauren sprang into action. The thought of orphaned kittens left without aid weighed heavily on her. Turning to her family for counsel, their resolute response ignited a spark within Lauren: to establish a rescue of our own. With a deep sense of responsibility, Lauren resolved to fill the void left by the closure, ensuring continuity of care for the kittens under our watch. This included not only tending to the remaining kittens from the defunct rescue but also coordinating efforts to address the welfare of those previously adopted, going above and beyond what was expected. It was a commitment born out of compassion for our community and a steadfast dedication to the well-being of every precious life in need. As the driving force behind TMKR, Lauren serves as its President, overseeing day-to-day operations to ensure the organization runs smoothly and efficiently. Her journey into kitten rescue began through fostering neonatal kittens for a prior organization, where she gained invaluable hands-on experience that laid the foundation for TMKR. Despite the challenges inherent in kitten rescue, including heartbreaking losses and the demanding nature of neonatal care, Lauren remains undeterred. For her, the most rewarding aspect lies in the joy of adoption, witnessing the culmination of tireless efforts as kittens find their forever homes. TMKR's mission extends beyond rescue and adoption; it actively engages with the local community, advocating for spaying and neutering to curb the feral cat population. Through social networking and events, TMKR recruits fosters and expands its reach to neighboring areas, ensuring more kittens receive the care they need. Looking to the future, Lauren envisions TMKR continuing to expand and grow, fueled by the passion of its volunteers and supporters. With upcoming projects on the horizon, she remains excited about the organization's trajectory and the impact it will continue to make in the years to come. To those considering supporting or joining TMKR, Lauren emphasizes the organization's foster-centric approach, characterized by constant communication, support, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of fosters and kittens alike. In reflecting on her journey with TMKR, Lauren expresses profound gratitude to her mentors, fosters, volunteers, and supporters, acknowledging that their unwavering dedication is the cornerstone of the organization's success.

Kelly embarked on her journey with Tiny Miracles Kitten Rescue (TMKR) in 2022 as a foster. By summer of the same year, she had joined the mentor team, driven by a desire to offer the same unwavering support and dedication she had experienced firsthand from her own mentor. In 2023 Kelly assumed the role of Treasurer on TMKR's board. As treasurer Kelly meticulously oversees the organization's finances, recognizing that sound financial management is pivotal in determining the scope of their impact. She believes that transparency and accuracy in accounting empowers informed decision-making, enabling TMKR to direct resources where they are most needed. Kelly’s resolve to champion the cause was solidified by the experiences of handling critical intakes. Navigating through the intake process, she is confronted with the harrowing reality of the fragile state many of the kittens arrive in—cold, unresponsive, infested with fleas or fly larvae, and often anemic. It's a stark reminder of the vital role TMKR plays, knowing that without our intervention, their chances of survival would be slim to none. Yet, the path is not without its challenges. Kelly acknowledges the scarcity of low-cost spay and neuter options as a significant hurdle, perpetuating the cycle of unwanted litters. Undeterred, TMKR actively engages with the community, offering spay/neuter assistance to curb the problem at its roots. For Kelly, the most rewarding aspect lies in witnessing the journey of resilience and hope, embodied in the felines that beat the odds and find their forever homes. Each adoption is a testament to the collective effort of the community and TMKR's unwavering commitment. Through fostering, TMKR not only saves lives but also fosters a culture of compassion and responsibility within the community. Kelly's personal experiences exemplify the pivotal role of mentorship in nurturing a network of dedicated fosters, ensuring the sustainability of TMKR's mission. As Kelly reflects on her journey with TMKR, she is reminded of countless heartwarming tales of redemption, such as that of Rhea, a once timid mother cat who found solace and love in the arms of her adoptive family. To those considering supporting or joining TMKR, Kelly extends a simple yet important message: "TMKR wouldn't be where it is today without the support of the community. Donate, foster, adopt." Kelly Pivacco, a Florida native, resides in Jonesborough, TN with her husband. Kelly has a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from The University of Central Florida, with minors in marketing and education.

Celeste Guerrero, originally of Colorado, moved to NE Tennessee in 2021 alongside her husband, their entourage of five dogs, and their cat. Her hobbies include hiking and dog sports. Upon settling in NE TN, Celeste was struck by the pressing need for foster homes, particularly for neonatal kittens. An internet search for neonatal kitten rescues led her to Tiny Miracles Kitten Rescue (TMKR). Celeste has over 20 years of expereince in veterinary medicine. With her extensive experience in vet med Celeste’s role as a board member is to support the rescue in veterinary decisions and medical care protocols; ensuring the highest standards of care for kittens in the rescue. She serves as a vital bridge between the organization and the veterinary realm. Celeste draws inspiration from the dedication of her fellow volunteers that are so willing to learn and sacrifice time and energy for a cause as well as the generosity of the community to support the rescue as this could not happen without it. Rescue work is emotionally challenging and having a good group of volunteers to support and encourage makes all the difference. TMKR does a wonderful job of community engagement by social media outreach, attending local festivals and even hosting kitten yoga events! The more involved the community becomes the greater the awareness of the problem of pet overpopulation and homelessness. Encouraging and sponsoring spay/neuter of all TMKR kittens and many community cats only strengthens the bonds with community and gets the word out of how important spay and neuter is. TMKR is a new rescue that is growing and thriving and is supported by volunteering, donating ,and sharing which is vital to the continued growth and impact that TMKR can have on the community.

Growing up in Tennessee, Linda Bearfield developed a deep-rooted passion for animal welfare. With a background in education, she taught high school and college locally before dedicating her efforts to the cause she holds dear. Her journey with Tiny Miracles Kitten Rescue (TMKR) began through a family connection that introduced her to the organization's President. Witnessing the pressing need for neonatal kitten care in their community, Linda was drawn to TMKR's mission and became an integral part of the team. As a board member, Linda plays a vital role in coordinating with other animal rescue organizations and local government entities. Her advocacy and educational efforts aim to raise awareness about kitten rescue and care, making a tangible impact on hundreds of kittens annually. Motivated by her years of experience in animal rescue, Linda finds inspiration in the unwavering dedication of TMKR's team and the profound impact their work has on countless lives. For her, every kitten deserves a chance at life, love, and a forever home. While challenges abound in the kitten rescue industry, Linda and the TMKR team confront them head-on with tireless dedication and round-the-clock care. Yet, amidst the trials, the joy of seeing a once-vulnerable kitten thrive makes every effort worthwhile. TMKR's engagement with the local community is characterized by active communication and assistance to those in need. Linda emphasizes the importance of fostering, recognizing its pivotal role in the organization's mission to save lives. Looking ahead, Linda envisions TMKR continuing its vital work, actively saving kittens and educating the public. With upcoming projects on the horizon, such as potential real estate ventures, the organization is poised to achieve its goals more effectively than ever. To those considering supporting or joining TMKR, Linda extends a heartfelt message: whether through time, positive feedback, or donations, every contribution makes a difference in the lives of kittens in need. As Linda reflects on her journey with TMKR, she remains committed to the cause, knowing that together, they can make a meaningful impact on the welfare of kittens and the community at large.