The Gregory J. Reiter Animal Rescue Award honors the legacy of Gregory Reiter, a devoted animal advocate whose compassion for animals continues to create life-changing impact. The award recognizes individuals and organizations whose commitment reflects Greg’s belief that meaningful progress comes from showing up for animals and the people who work to make the world a kinder place for them.

This year, PETA is pleased to recognize Susan McGrady Hevey and the Twin County Humane Society (TCHS), which does incredible work in two Southwest Virginia counties. TCHS’ extraordinary dedication to animals in this underserved region of Virginia has changed the world for countless animals.

The Twin County Humane Society is an all‑volunteer organization that works closely with local taxpayer‑funded shelters and responds to urgent calls for help, connecting guardians with spay/neuter services and critical interventions that alleviate animal suffering and revolutionize quality of life. Through a partnership with PETA, TCHS helps bring high-volume, high-quality spay/neuter and other resources to communities where access to care is limited or nonexistent, easing the burden on shelters while keeping animals with the people who love them.

Within that work, Susan’s role is truly remarkable. Between PETA’s twice-annual visits to the region, Susan follows up on dozens of cases to recheck animals and their living situations. She drives her own car, goes into the field herself, and takes the time to build trust with guardians who may be overwhelmed, isolated, or wary of outside help. Susan is committed to the difficult, unglamorous work that often makes the difference between continued neglect and lasting change for animals in her community.

Susan’s approach is rooted in empathy. As she has said, “Everyone has a story, you just have to slow down and listen.” That philosophy has secured spay/neuter surgeries and improvements to animals’ living conditions, while educating guardians and providing the support they need to do the right thing for their animal companions.

When informed of the award, Susan expressed her deep gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to this work throughout southwest Virginia. The 2026 Gregory J. Reiter Animal Rescue Award funds will support Twin County Humane Society’s efforts to ensure that compassionate, practical help continues to reach animals and families who need it most.

By honoring Susan McGrady Hevey and Twin County Humane Society, we celebrate the kind of steady, partnership‑driven compassion that Greg believed in.