Wildlife Rescue League (WRL) of Northern Virginia, located in Arlington, offers a network of helpline volunteers, transporters and wildlife rehabilitators to support local wildlife rescue efforts. The organization is dedicated to providing care for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife with the intent of releasing them back into their native habitat.

On Saturday, Feb. 2, nearly 40 WRL members and supporters celebrated the launch of the organization's new Vegetarian/Vegan policy at GreenFare, an organic whole plant cafe in Herndon. All proceeds from the event supported the work of WRL.

Carolyn Wilder, President of the organization, said that over the last two years, the Wildlife Rescue League's board has contemplated adopting a vegetarian/vegan policy for its events. Adopting an animal-friendly menu policy is not uncommon for groups that support animals. "Feb. 2, Ground Hog's Day, is the culmination of the efforts," said Wilder.

In addition to celebrating their new policy and holding a fundraiser, the organization also wanted to put a shout out for volunteers. Volunteers are needed in the Herndon/Reston areas to assist with answering helpline calls, transporting wildlife and educating the public about the natural history of native wildlife and how to exist with wildlife. Volunteers for the helpline must be at least 15 years of age (with parental approval), and transporters must be at least 18 years old with a valid license. For more information, call 703-440-0800, ext. 6 and leave a message, or visit www.wildliferescueleague.org.