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2023 VBSPCA Lifesaver Award Recipient: Bill Campbell

Pets have been a part of Bill Campbell’s life for as long as he can remember. From his getting his first dog, Heater, when he was seven years old to the visits he now gets from his children and “grandpets,” Campbell has enjoyed the company of many animals over the years. 

When asked how animals have changed Campbell’s life, he explained, “Having pets taught me responsibility and compassion, and provided the joy of companionship with another being who showed love and devotion.” Through his involvement with the Virginia Beach SPCA, he has changed the lives of many animals as well. 

Campbell served on the VBSPCA’s Board of Directors from 2016 to 2022, when he transitioned to an honorary board position. Throughout the years he has shared his expertise in communications and been a sponsor of the organization’s events. He has also shared his artistic talents to raise funds for the animals by donating custom pet portraits for VBSPCA silent auctions. Additionally, Campbell was the man behind the drawing featured on the custom beer label for Second Chance Sour Ale, which was part of a photo contest and fundraising initiative launched in 2021 in collaboration with Smartmouth Brewing Company.

Campbell’s years of contributions to the VBSPCA will be recognized with the 2023 Lifesaver Award, which will be presented to him at the Wags and Whiskers Gala on Saturday, April 29, 2023. It is only fitting, since he has attended and provided financial support to the organization’s largest fundraising event for many years.

“As long as I remember coming, the Gala has been one of the major highlights of every season,” says Campbell. “The animals, the fun, the pride in supporting such a worthy cause.”

Campbell has been a dedicated ambassador of the VBSPCA in our community, spreading awareness of the organization’s service offerings. “What amazes me about the Virginia Beach SPCA is that it is far more than a pet adoption agency. Its dedication to animal health, humane education, affordable veterinary services, and injured wildlife rescue all contribute to its mission of eliminating animal suffering and building human compassion,” he says.

It is impossible for the VBSPCA to sustain its programs and services without committed and caring members of the community such as Campbell. While he shies away from credit for his part in saving animal lives, receiving this year’s Lifesaver Award affirms something Campbell has long known. “[This recognition] is an affirmation that working for something you truly believe in can prove highly rewarding. I don’t need an award to learn that lesson,” says Campbell.

“My involvement with the Virginia Beach SPCA has also allowed me the satisfaction of helping so many animals find loving homes, where I’m sure they will help develop the same values that animals taught me.” – Bill Campbell

Photo Credit: Don Monteaux Photography