Laura Houston
Email: Contact
Phone Number: 856-845-9633
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About the Business:
The Animal Welfare Association (AWA), located in Voorhees, New Jersey, has been dedicated to animal welfare since 1948. As one of the region’s oldest and largest organizations, AWA focuses on reducing animal suffering, promoting the human-animal bond, and improving the role of animals in people’s lives.
AWA operates a busy adoption center that places thousands of cats, dogs, and small animals into loving homes each year. Its on-site clinic offers low-cost veterinary care—wellness exams, vaccinations, and minor illness treatment—to ensure pets get the care they need. The organization also provides affordable spay/neuter surgeries to help control pet overpopulation.
Through education and training resources, AWA encourages responsible pet ownership and humane treatment. Its VOW (Veterinary Outreach for Wellness) program brings free veterinary care, vaccines, and microchips to underserved Camden residents. AWA also runs a pet food pantry to help families keep their pets fed during tough times.
AWA envisions a compassionate community where all animals are respected, the human-animal bond is valued, and needless suffering is eliminated. Its wide range of programs ensures lasting impact on both pets and people across South Jersey.
Laura Houston is the Executive Director of the Animal Welfare Association (AWA), leading efforts to reduce animal homelessness and expand access to affordable pet care in South Jersey. With over 20 years in nonprofit management, she has grown AWA’s services to include adoptions, low-cost veterinary care, and humane education. Laura holds a B.S. and M.A. in English from Rutgers University–Camden. She serves on the Voorhees Business Association board and is active in several local organizations. A lifelong West Deptford resident, Laura enjoys nature, Philadelphia sports, and life with her partner Bill, their three rescue dogs, and two African grey parrots.