Meet Holly Gaske | Chair & Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Holly Gaske and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Holly, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The Gaske Cat Foundation’s inception arose from a profound and persistent observation. While many groups were actively rescuing and caring for cats, a critical funding gap existed for their crucial needs. I dedicated considerable time to volunteering at animal shelters across the United States and discerned this funding disparity. Seeing how many cats can’t be helped because of a lack of money just broke my heart. Driven by a passionate commitment to feline well-being, I initiated grassroots fundraising efforts over 15 years ago, supporting charitable organizations and individual cats in need. This endeavor organically expanded, garnering regional and then national attention. As the volume of requests for assistance increased, the decision was made to formalize the operation, leading to the incorporation of The Gaske Cat Foundation. In 2023, with the support of a dedicated board, the organization achieved 501(c)(3) status, solidifying its position as a recognized non-profit entity.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets us apart from others is what we are most proud of. Firstly, our specific focus on funding other cat charities is a significant differentiator. While many wonderful organizations are directly involved in rescuing, sheltering, and adopting cats, we intentionally position ourselves as a grant-making body. Our primary mission isn’t to run a shelter ourselves but rather to empower and support the vital work of existing organizations. This allows us to have a broader reach and amplify the impact of numerous dedicated groups across Dallas, Texas, and the United States. Secondly, we pride ourselves on our rigorous due diligence in choosing the proper charities to partner with. We investigate them to ensure they are reputable. We rate them on their financial transparency, developed systems, fair and ethical practices, and they can ensure us (with more than words) that funds will be directed to precise needs. We only partner with credible organizations that provide proven track records, accountability systems, and the capacity to make a real difference in the lives of cats. Above all else, we are good stewards of the donations we receive. Nothing else is acceptable to us. Providing our donors with the confidence that their contributions are being used effectively is what we are known for. Also, 100% of the money donated goes directly towards our causes and mission. Not overhead or salaries.

Currently, we are raising funds and awareness to support domestic violence victims. Only about 5% of the domestic violence shelters in the US accept cats, and over 90% of victims cite their pets as a reason they stay with their abusers. The money we raise for this campaign will provide much-needed funding for two invaluable organizations: A cat-friendly DV Shelter and a rescue that will foster cats long-term for those fleeing. For information on our partners or to donate, please visit our website: www.gaskecatfoundation.org.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Great question. My answer would vary greatly depending on whom I was hosting. If my guests had children, a trip to the Cowgirl Museum in Fort Worth is a must. It’s dedicated to the women who built the American West and criminally underrated. For adults, taking in a ballet or opera at the Winspear is always a great idea. The acoustics are incredible there. I believe that tea at the French Room in the Adolphus is the best place for people to watch, and I always enjoy eating lunch at the Zodiac Room in the Nieman Marcus downtown.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I cannot overstate the pivotal role my phenomenal Board Members have played. Their unwavering support and fervent dedication were instrumental in formalizing the foundation and propelling our mission forward. Their invaluable contributions were evident from the outset, and I am profoundly grateful for them. Without their support, navigating the complexities of establishing a non-profit would have been insurmountable. Their combined efforts, grounding humor, and boundless creativity form the very backbone of this organization. Therefore, I wish to extend my profound appreciation and recognition to Meghan, Hannah, Nancy, and Kayla. Their contributions are immeasurable, and they deserve every accolade in the world.

Website: https://www.gaskecatfoundation.org

Instagram: @gaskecatfoundation

Linkedin: @gaskecatfoundation

Facebook: @gaskecatfoundation