Cat Claws Inc. *

Bill Seliskar said he believes in sharing the success of a business with the community.

As president of Cat Claws Inc. of Morrilton, he has shared – to the tune of about $175,000 a year to local nonprofit groups.

Cat Claws, which sold $5.3 million worth of scratching posts and other items for cat owners in 2003, has been awarded the 2003 Arkansas Community Foundation Philanthropy Award in the small business category.

Seliskar has been involved in several charitable causes, including Safe Place Inc., a women’s shelter where he is the chairman of the board.

Seliskar stepped up in 1995 when he learned the shelter had closed because it had run out of operating money. Every year since then, he has given it about $85,000 to make sure the doors stay open.

He also makes sure that when women and children leave the shelter, they have enough food, shelter and a job.

Seliskar said he will always be there to donate to the shelter.

Seliskar also stepped up to help curb the illiteracy rate, which hovers around 24 percent.

He recently launched a pilot program in which he hires illiterate workers and pays them to attend literacy classes during their work day. Cat Claws also makes sure they have proper transportation. So far, six workers have taken the classes.

“They are really excited,” he said.

Seliskar said he is trying to get other businesses involved in the program.

Cat Claws also gives to Dream Catcher Outdoor Adventures Inc. of Atkins, which helps those with disabilities or who are terminally ill to experience outdoor activities such as hunting and videotaping wildlife.

Seliskar advised the group on how to get started.

“I honestly believe that when a person is down, I believe in reaching out and helping them,” he said.