Voices for Animals is a Charlottesville-based group involved with preserving the welfare and well-being of animals both locally and globally. From the time that I got involved with the group in 1999 as a volunteer, it quickly became apparent how important the mission of the group is to its leaders and volunteers and how concerned they are with making a positive difference in the lives of animals – yes, animals. Those creatures who can’t help themselves. The ongoing spay/neuter program, Charlottesville Vegetarian Festival and other animal rights efforts are endeavors that the group takes on whole-heartedly, genuinely, and with extreme and selfless enthusiasm. Through the efforts of its dedicated volunteers, the group accomplishes a great deal, raising their own funds through grants and donation collection. Those funds are then wisely used to support their ongoing programs as efficiently as possible with minimal overhead.