Orland Park Rescue's Cat Adoption Lounge Set To Open Doors, And Hearts

ORLAND PARK, IL — An Orland Park-based rescue group knows cats don't always put their best paw forward if they're not comfortable in their surroundings, so they're changing things up a bit.

One Goal Animal Foundation, 11310 W Southwest Hwy, will soon debut a cat adoption lounge—a more open environment for cats to roam amongst themselves and people visiting. The cats are not caged, and are free to explore as people mingle about them.

"They’re always free-roaming cats," said One Goal Animal Foundation President Beata Zabrinas. "It’s just like if they were in a house."

Previously, the rescue was primarily foster-based, but its staff leased the space on Southwest Highway in December 2022. The organization was founded in 2014 and this is its first brick-and-mortar space.

With some time and blood, sweat and tears, it has now been transformed into the free-roam cat adoption center and lounge. Cats have the entire space to explore, and the rescue will allow visitors to come, spend time with the cats, and get to know them in an environment that closely simulates that of a home. Any sick or not yet vetted cats are cat separately from the general herd until they've been treated and cleared.

Cat trees and toys are placed throughout the space, and the cats have the run of it night and day. After its grand opening August 20, the organization plans to charge $10/hour to spend time with the cats. Coffee will be provided, hoping that people will take a moment to enjoy time with the furry faces—maybe potentially even find a new best friend.

Proceeds from the visits will go toward the organization's operational fees and rent for the space. The concept is intended to give potential adopters a chance to get to know the cats in a more comfortable, less stressful environment.

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"Anyone looking to adopt will also be able to really understand what the cat is like," Zabrinas said. "Are they really friendly, etc.? Some cats come up to people right away and want to hang out.

"It gives everybody—instead of seeing a cat in the cage—you really know what they’re all about."

People looking to spend a little time with a feline can visit the facility for the fee, Zabrinas said. It helps socialize the cats while also perhaps helping potential adopters and pets bond.

The lounge's grand opening is set for August 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The visiting fee is waived the first day, Zabrinas said.

Being in a residential area with walking paths around it, she's realized some are already trying to cheat the system for a peek at the cats. Zabrinas cleans the windows, but she's noticed some ... prints ... on the outside of the windows, even.

Dog snoots.

Dog owners take their pups for walks in the area, she said, and their curiosity seems to get the best of them.

"They keep visiting!" she said, laughing.

One Goal Animal Foundation can be reached at 708-256-5000, or onegoalanimalfoundation@gmail.com. Find them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.