The Susi Q

Golden Years in the Canyon: Inside the Blue Bell Foundation for Cats

Presented by: Jenna Mikula, Director, Lydea Swit, Board Member and Sarah Bottum, Communications Manager

Join the leaders of the Blue Bell Foundation for an insightful discussion on senior cat care, the importance of legacy planning for pets, and what it takes to sustain a nonprofit cat sanctuary. 

Since 1989, Blue Bell has offered assisted living for senior cats, allowing them to live out their golden years in a historic Laguna Canyon cottage. The organization has been a cherished part of our community for over 37 years. Come learn about this unique local gem and why planning for your pet’s future matters. 

Jenna Genovese-Mikula, Director

Jenna earned an MBA from St. John's University in 2008 and spent the next 10 years working in corporate finance and accounting roles of increasing responsibility. In late 2018, she left the corporate world to pursue her passions and became a volunteer at Blue Bell in early 2019. Several weeks later, she joined the staff as a Cat Caregiver and was promoted to Assistant Director in 2021. In 2023, she took on additional responsibilities and was promoted to Director. She leads the Cat Caregiver staff, manages daily operations, engages with donors, and participates in strategic planning. Jenna has been caring for cats since childhood and has shared her life with 11 feline family members over the last 30 years. She is a graduate of the Veterinary Assistant program at OC Veterinary Assistant School.

Sarah Bottum, Communications Manager 

 Sarah has felt deeply connected to animals, nature, and people since childhood. She envisioned a career helping pets and humans, although she wasn't quite sure what that would entail. While attending college at CSU Fullerton, Sarah worked as a receptionist at an animal hospital. She learned about veterinary science, animal behavior, and how to work with cats and dogs. After graduating in 2013, Sarah held various marketing and management roles and worked for a local pet food start-up. In 2020, Sarah began operating her own pet-sitting business, serving Laguna Beach and surrounding communities. She joined Blue Bell in 2023 with a passion for pet care and a genuine love for senior cats and the humans who care for them. Sarah manages the volunteer program, gives voice to the Blue Bell story, and supports strategic projects and daily operations.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

1. Your well-being is our primary concern. We ask and expect you to be able to participate safely in the activities, classes and programs you have chosen. By registering, you agree to release Laguna Beach Seniors, Inc. and its instructors from all possible liability that may arise from your participation.
2. Registration is required before participation in any class.
3. Late registration is permitted when a class series is active on our registration page. However, class fees are not pro-rated.
4. Payment for any class fees is due upon registration.
5. Limited Refund Policy: If a fee class is cancelled, you will automatically receive a full refund. There are no refunds if you miss a class or drop out. If case of error, forward your class registration by email to the Registrar with an explanation. All refunds are at the discretion of the Registrar and involve a service charge, except when a class is cancelled.
6. Our code of conduct: A successful Zoom event requires the good will of all involved. Instructors, at their sole discretion, can mute any Zoom participant who they deem is disruptive to the class.