Today we’d like to introduce you to Jolanda Malone.
Hi Jolanda, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Jolanda Malone and I was born and raised in the Bronx. I grew up with a lovely grandmother that always supported my love for animals. We would rescue stray cats and make sure they were kept safe and shown a lot of love. Since I was a little girl, I always had a passion for helping animals and when I got older, I helped a lot of TNR colonies in the Bronx. I would provide transportation, donations, placement for post-surgery, food assistance, and educating the community on how they can help limit the amount of stray animals in the street. I would also travel with cat/dog food in my trunk and if I see someone that may need assistance, I would lend a hand. Once I moved to NC, I realized that there are many people that are going through financial hardship and it is hard for them to not only be able to provide for themselves but also for their pet. I started a non-profit organization named Stay Pawsome in 2021 that builds a relationship with low-income families with pets. We provide care packages that contain pet food/products and also if requested I also provide clothes, canned goods, and hygiene products. Outside of my passion for lending a hand, my peace has always been photography, poetry, dancing, cooking, baking, and bringing people together. Through my hobbies, I was able to create groups for people to have a platform where they can be comfortable and be themselves. I have been able to help people complete tasks, lose weight, take accountability, become more involved in their spirituality, and much more. I do this by offering life coach sessions. I have been vegan for almost 4 years now and I decided to start a free community group where I discuss healthy yummy recipes, workout group (The L.I.V.E Club Love.Inspire.Visualize.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There has definitely been a lot of trial and error. My experience with marketing was entry-level and I was so used to just being on the field that I had to adjust to taking the time to get more people to know about who Stay Pawsome is. I love helping people; however, I am definitely shy and still sometimes have moments where I get nervous prior to talking. I had to build more confidence to know that not everyone will say yes, donate, or give you the time of day. However, don’t give up and you will end up in front of the right people. Also getting organized, making a business plan, and making realistic goals. That way even on your worst days you can still meet the goals you set for yourself.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Stay Pawsome – non-profit organization that builds relationships with low-income families with pets through support, resources, and lending a hand. I am currently raising money to get a physical location so that I can continue to give out my care packages, provide low-cost vet care, and temporary placement for pets while owners look for a permanent place to live.
I used to work at an animal shelter and I realized that some people may not want to give their pet up but due to not having a place to stay they are unable to keep them. I want people to understand that Stay Pawsome is a family and that if we have a location their baby will be safe with us and not euthanized nor adopted while they are trying to get on their feet. I honestly don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have my cats by my side.
The L.I.V.E Club (Love.Inspire.Visualize.
I also provide Life Coach Sessions to help individuals reach their goals whether it is in the professional or personal field. I know how hard it is when you have a to-do list and then life happens. I help with setting realistic goals, time management, and working through the challenges.
For my clients and friends in the neighborhood I also help provide them with a break, whether it’s to regroup or a much needed vacation with affordable pet sitting, babysitting, and house sitting. It takes a team to make a dream come true and I want them to know they aren’t alone with the journey they are going through.
You can join this group, book a session, or service by visiting the website jolandamalone.com
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I am a cat lady and love French fries. I love hiking, making people laugh, and am family-oriented.
I am providing drop-in visits to pet owners, babysitting, and house sitting in Cary and surrounding area (must be no more than 5 miles from 27519 zip codes) and 10% of the profit is going to Stay Pawsome getting a Physical Location.
We also take donations such as pet food, pet products, clothes, canned goods, and hygiene products.
Contact Info:
- Email: staypawsome919@gmail.com
- Website: staypawsome.org
- Instagram: instagram.com/staypawsome919
