Blue and teal logo for Animal welfare Association's 75th Anniversary.

AWA Milestones

75 Years of Caring for Pets & Benefiting People

AWA has always been more than a shelter. Here are some of the important milestones we’ve hit over the last 70 years. We can’t wait to continue moving forward with the help of our passionate supporters.


1948

AWA was founded by a group of animal lovers who had a vision that there would be an alternative to the pain, suffering and sure death most animals face when impounded.

1960’s

AWA’s current shelter opened.

1970

AWA’s Humane Education program launched.

1974

The first regional spay/neuter clinic opened.

1980’s

AWA launched our Pet-Assisted Therapy program.

1990’s

AWA became a limited admission shelter.

2007

AWA became a No-Kill Shelter.

2008

Community vet services expanded.

2009

Fortified our Transport Program, relieving community shelters from over-population.

2011

Launched Pet Re-Homing and Community Engagement programs.

2012

Partnered with several mayors and Camden County Shared Services to reduce the number of lost pets in our community.

2013

Completed Phase I of Expansion Project with a New Clinic Building.

2014

AWA hones in on its Humane Education program and re-introduces Summer Camp. Vets on Wheels hits the City of Camden providing access to veterinary care and free pet food and supplies.

2015

AWA begins offering Community Workshops free to the public. AWA also begins basic training classes and introduces dog owners to training methods to help dogs become better behaved.

2017

AWA formalizes our Special P.A.W.S. Volunteer program, giving special needs youth meaningful ways to help AWA’s shelter animals.

2018

AWA celebrates 70 years of saving lives.