Each year, the Gregory J. Reiter Award is given to an individual or group that demonstrates inspiring compassion and dedication to animals. Greg was a beloved member of the PETA family for many years. He and his wife, Alysoun, gave refuge to 17 rescued animals, including horses formerly used for racing who had been rescued by PETA.

This year’s award recipient, Julia Novak, is a 10-year PETA veteran who has worked on our mobile clinics, participated in countless protests, delivered life-changing doghouses with our fieldwork program, and fostered animals rescued by PETA, including of Itchy, who was adopted by Greg and Alysoun. Julia is shaping the next generation of animal activists as a loving mother to her sweet son, West, who already urges everyone he meets to go vegan.

Greg’s story and dedication to compassion continue to inspire animal advocates like Julia, and his legacy is visible in Alysoun’s commitment to animal rights and efforts to provide dogs, cats, horses, and wildlife with loving homes.

We still mourn the loss of Greg, but we’re honored to memorialize him annually with the Gregory J. Reiter Award. Be sure to watch the video of this year’s virtual presentation—you’ll be inspired to spread kindness for all animals.