The Compassion Award is presented each year to an individual, company, or group that reflects the Virginia Beach SPCA’s commitment to animals not only inside the shelter, but throughout the community.
In 2026, that recognition is proudly awarded to Charles Barker Automotive. Their leadership and generosity have helped the Wags & Whiskers Gala grow and have supported the VBSPCA’s lifesaving work.
A Lifelong Connection to Animals
For Lexie Barker-Taplett, co-owner of Charles Barker Automotive, caring for animals has always been a core value.
“Some of my earliest memories are tied to the joy and comfort they brought to our family. There was never a time when animals didn’t feel like a natural part of our everyday life.”
Over the years, she says, animals have taught her family loyalty, empathy, and unconditional love. They have grounded them during stressful periods and reinforced the responsibilities that come with caring for those who depend on us.
Today, that bond continues with Koda, the Yellow Lab she and her husband adopted from another local shelter just over three years ago. He brings comfort, joy, and balance to their daily routine, along with more laughs than they can count. As she says, he’s truly part of the family.
From First Gala to Meaningful Partnership
The Barker family first learned about the VBSPCA at the 2022 Wags & Whiskers Gala. Friends who often supported the event encouraged them to attend, and it became a turning point for them.
That evening made a strong impression. What started as a simple fundraiser visit soon became an ongoing commitment to the mission.
Charles Barker Automotive was the Presenting Sponsor of the Wags & Whisker Gala in 2022 and 2023. Their leadership has helped the event grow as the organization’s main fundraiser. They have also led the way as top paddle-raise donors, inspiring others to support the animals.
One moment stands out most to Lexie each year:
“Seeing hands go up across the room as our community rallies behind such an important cause is incredibly powerful. It’s a reminder of how much good can happen when a community comes together around a shared mission.”
In 2025, she strengthened her commitment by serving as co-chair of the Gala Committee. This was another way to support an organization that her family believes in.
A Recognition That Reflects Shared Values
What continues to inspire the Barker family is the VBSPCA’s dedication to protecting animals who need a second chance.
“They don’t just care for animals. They advocate for them, protect them, and give them a second chance.”
Receiving the Compassion Award is deeply meaningful to her.
“To be recognized by an organization like the VBSPCA, which truly shows compassion in action, is an honor our family does not take lightly. We’re proud to stand with the VBSPCA and grateful to play even a small role in helping animals get the care, protection, and second chances they deserve.”
Charles Barker Automotive is being recognized this year, but behind that recognition is a family whose commitment to giving back continues to make a meaningful difference for animals in our community.
Posted: February 18, 2026 by vbspcaadmin
2026 Compassion Award – Charles Barker Automotive
The Compassion Award is presented each year to an individual, company, or group that reflects the Virginia Beach SPCA’s commitment to animals not only inside the shelter, but throughout the community.
In 2026, that recognition is proudly awarded to Charles Barker Automotive. Their leadership and generosity have helped the Wags & Whiskers Gala grow and have supported the VBSPCA’s lifesaving work.
A Lifelong Connection to Animals
For Lexie Barker-Taplett, co-owner of Charles Barker Automotive, caring for animals has always been a core value.
“Some of my earliest memories are tied to the joy and comfort they brought to our family. There was never a time when animals didn’t feel like a natural part of our everyday life.”
Over the years, she says, animals have taught her family loyalty, empathy, and unconditional love. They have grounded them during stressful periods and reinforced the responsibilities that come with caring for those who depend on us.
Today, that bond continues with Koda, the Yellow Lab she and her husband adopted from another local shelter just over three years ago. He brings comfort, joy, and balance to their daily routine, along with more laughs than they can count. As she says, he’s truly part of the family.
From First Gala to Meaningful Partnership
The Barker family first learned about the VBSPCA at the 2022 Wags & Whiskers Gala. Friends who often supported the event encouraged them to attend, and it became a turning point for them.
That evening made a strong impression. What started as a simple fundraiser visit soon became an ongoing commitment to the mission.
Charles Barker Automotive was the Presenting Sponsor of the Wags & Whisker Gala in 2022 and 2023. Their leadership has helped the event grow as the organization’s main fundraiser. They have also led the way as top paddle-raise donors, inspiring others to support the animals.
One moment stands out most to Lexie each year:
“Seeing hands go up across the room as our community rallies behind such an important cause is incredibly powerful. It’s a reminder of how much good can happen when a community comes together around a shared mission.”
In 2025, she strengthened her commitment by serving as co-chair of the Gala Committee. This was another way to support an organization that her family believes in.
A Recognition That Reflects Shared Values
What continues to inspire the Barker family is the VBSPCA’s dedication to protecting animals who need a second chance.
“They don’t just care for animals. They advocate for them, protect them, and give them a second chance.”
Receiving the Compassion Award is deeply meaningful to her.
“To be recognized by an organization like the VBSPCA, which truly shows compassion in action, is an honor our family does not take lightly. We’re proud to stand with the VBSPCA and grateful to play even a small role in helping animals get the care, protection, and second chances they deserve.”
Charles Barker Automotive is being recognized this year, but behind that recognition is a family whose commitment to giving back continues to make a meaningful difference for animals in our community.
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