For over half a century, the AWL, a non-profit 501(c)3 established in 1965, has stood as a beacon of compassion, serving Virginia’s Northern Neck: Lancaster, Northumberland, Westmoreland, and Richmond counties. We are 100% volunteer run and receive no government funding.
Our Mission
Our Vision
Our Commitment is Multifaceted
- Free spay/neuter for dogs or cats adopted from a NNK county shelter
- Free or reduced spay/neuter for NNK dogs or cats with application from owner
- Fostering/ Adoption and/or rescue with transport to another facility
- Veterinary care for dogs and cats in the Lancaster Animal Shelter
- Emergency veterinary care for dogs or cats that are injured or ill when their owner is unable to cover the cost
- Food for needy pets distributed at our thrift store, to owners of cat colonies on private property and NNK food pantries through our FEED ME, TOO! program.
- Community involvement to support humane education and disaster relief
Your support is the driving force behind our mission. Whether through financial contributions or contributions to the thrift shop, or by becoming a dedicated foster or volunteer, your involvement empowers us in creating a more humane community.
AWL Annual Newsletter
Take a moment to explore the Animal Welfare League of the Northern Neck’s 2025 annual newsletter—marking 60 years of unwavering commitment to animals in need. Since 1965, AWL has served as a beacon of compassion, working tirelessly to prevent cruelty and promote humane treatment. With the support of dedicated volunteers and generous donors, the organization provides essential services like spaying and neutering, foster care, pet food assistance, vaccinations, and emergency medical treatment.
This special edition celebrates a powerful legacy and the countless lives touched over the years, while also looking ahead with hope and determination for a future filled with continued advocacy and care.
AWL Board of Directors
Sara Ford – President
Jeanne Schiavo – Vice President
Marianne Disney -Treasurer
Barb Deitz – Secretary
Sue Ann Dale
Joanie Meeks
Susan Timpano
Wanda Wade (not pictured)
Peny Gallogly (not pictured)
Your Donations at Work
Through the generous donations we receive, along with sales from our Thrift Shop, AWL funds veterinary services (including medical expenses, vaccinations, emergency and foster care, and spay/neuter) to local animals in need and donates much needed dog and cat food to local area food banks. Click on the graphics below to view some monthly statistics of how your donations are funding our work to positively impact and care for the local animals in our community.
