Effingham, IL – August 21, 2026 – The Effingham County Chamber welcomes Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery as one of its newest members, recognizing the nonprofit organization’s commitment to animal rescue, compassionate care and making a positive impact throughout the region.
Located just north of Effingham, Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit feline care and adoption center dedicated to rescuing cats, promoting responsible pet ownership and connecting adoptable animals with caring homes. Since opening its doors, the organization has helped nearly 1,400 cats, and approximately 40 dogs, find permanent homes while continuing to expand the services and programs it offers to the community.
Led by Shelter Owner Heather Mumma and Shelter Director Becki Inyart, the Cattery continues the legacy of longtime animal advocate Jim Beam with the help of dedicated staff, volunteers, donors and community partners. Each year, the nonprofit cares for and helps find homes for approximately 200 to 250 cats, giving animals a second chance while helping families welcome a new companion into their lives.
One of the Cattery’s newer programs, Cattery Companions, helps elderly and seriously ill individuals experience the companionship of a pet for as long as they can provide care. Through the program, the Cattery provides a contractual promise to take the pet back if the individual becomes unable to care for the animal or passes away, providing peace of mind for participants and ensuring the pet will always have a safe place to return.
The Cattery also works to connect cats with businesses where they may be well suited for a shop, office or other business setting. In addition to providing companionship and natural pest control, these cats can become familiar faces for customers and part of a business’s personality.
In addition to adoption and rescue services, Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery offers full-service cat and dog grooming and hosts weekend birthday parties at the shelter for guests of all ages.
Community members can explore the Cattery’s safari-themed adoption center, meet adoptable cats, volunteer and learn more about the organization’s mission. The unique facility has also earned Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery recognition as part of the official trail of unique cat adoption centers stretching from St. Louis to Chicago.
“Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery is creating something special for our community,” said Becky Brown, Membership Director for the Effingham County Chamber. “From finding homes for nearly 1,400 cats to creating programs that connect people and pets in meaningful ways, their impact continues to grow. We’re proud to welcome them to the Chamber.”
As a nonprofit organization, Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery relies on donations, volunteers and community support to provide care, shelter and second chances for hundreds of animals each year.
To learn more about Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery, view adoptable cats, volunteer, or donate, visit BeamsCorner.com, call (844) OUR-CATS, or stop by 18086 N. U.S. Highway 45, Effingham. The cattery is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
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Pictured (left to right): Chamber Ambassadors Debbie Womack (First National Bank of Waterloo) & Russ Runde (Dieterich Bank), Shelter Director Becki Inyart, Shelter Owner Heather Mumma, Chamber Ambassador Steve Will (Dieterich Bank), and Chamber Membership Director Becky Brown
About the Effingham County Chamber
Founded in 1917, the Effingham County Chamber has been a leader in supporting business growth and community progress for more than a century. Today, the Chamber continues to champion local success through advocacy, professional development, and initiatives that strengthen Effingham County’s economy. To learn more about Chamber membership, visit EffinghamCountyChamber.com or call (217) 342-4147.