5-Minute Interview: Howard Baskin, chairman, Big Cat rescue

Today, Baskin says, the rescue is home to 145 cats, including lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, bobcats, lynxes and others.

Here, FS talks with Baskin about the refuge and the fundraising that FundRaising Success: How do you fund your mission? What fundraising avenues do you use?

Howard Baskin: Our two primary sources of income are guided tours of the sanctuary and donations, mostly from individuals. Secondary sources include an annual gala called the Fur Ball, a gift shop, online gift-shop sales, an ink-recycle program, and a cell tower on the property. We have done almost no direct-mail solicitation of donations, relying primarily on our informative quarterly newsletter and the Web.