2026 is a New Milestone
On June 28, 1946, a group of 26 Alexandrians came together out of concern for animals in the community to form the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Eighty years later, the AWLA continues to be a beacon and resource for the animals and people of our community, and we couldn’t have come this far without you!
While we look forward to the next eight decades, we're celebrating our past achievements and all the animals who have been saved and positively impacted since 1946. This year, we will have many ways for you to join in on the fun!
Noteworthy Events
Paws in the Park - November 1
What would an 80th celebration be without this much-loved community event? Paws in the Park returns to Oronoco Bay Park on November 1, 2026!
A Toast to 80 Years - November 12
We are hosting a special 80th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, November 12 at the Torpedo Factory to commemorate eight decades of helping pets and people in Alexandria and beyond.
$80 for 80 years!
There is no better way to partner with us in our 80th year than to become a monthly, recurring donor. Your consistent gift ensures we always have the financial resources available to help animals when they need us most. Click here to set up your $80 recurring monthly donation!
Share your awla story!
Animal Adoption Stories
We want to hear your AWLA animal adoption story! We'd love to know how your AWLA alum changed your life for the better. Whether you adopted last month, last year, or decades ago, please share your adoption story and pictures with us. Your submitted stories and pictures help us tell our lifesaving story! Click here to share your AWLA adoption story!
Volunteer/Supporter Stories
Do you have stories or photos from volunteering at the AWLA over the last 80 years? We'd love to hear from you, too! Click here to share your AWLA support story!
Be a part of this year's celebration
For eight decades, the AWLA has been strengthened by the businesses and organizations that call our community home. Local partners have played a vital role in our success, standing beside us as we’ve protected animals, supported families, and grown into the agency we are today.
As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we invite businesses and organizations to partner with AWLA throughout our yearlong 80th anniversary events. Your partnership helps honor our past while shaping a brighter future for animals and the people who love them.
Our History
A Look Back at 80 Years
A lot has happened over the last eight decades .... take a historical look back at how the AWLA - and animal welfare - has evolved since 1946.
Stay Up to date
Text AWLA to 833-360-5466 and be the first to know about other ways to celebrate our 80th anniversary!
Questions?
Contact our team at development@AlexandriaAnimals.org.