Nominated by Doug Eader.

Founded in 1994 by Pam Eader Miller, SAFE Haven for Cats got its start in a heated and air-conditioned converted two-car garage, where it remained for five years. Joining a growing national movement, SAFE Haven for Cats opened the first permanent, no-kill animal shelter in the Raleigh-Durham "Research Triangle" on Oct. 9, 1999. SAFE Haven is supported by many volunteers in the community. At least 60 people per week volunteer for one of 12 shifts to make sure the cats are clean, socialized and well cared for. From adopting 52 cats and kittens in the first year to rescuing and adopting 413 in 2005, SAFE Haven has always provided the very best food, medical care and social environment for the felines in its care. In 2003, the shelter was moved into an expanded facility that enabled Pam and her team to increase the number of cats and kittens rescued, expand SAFE Haven's low-cost spay and neuter clinic, and vastly enrich each cat's environment. Since 1994, SAFE Haven for Cats has rescued and adopted over 3,000 cats and kittens. Pam is a true hero to all homeless cats as well as a great mentor to others.