Annual Banquet
Celebrating achievements in animal care
2026 event highlights
El Paso VMA Celebrates Community Excellence at 41st Annual Awards Ceremony
On April 11, the El Paso Veterinary Medical Association (EPVMA) proudly hosted its 41st Annual Community Awards Banquet in El Paso, TX. This year’s event honored individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to animal welfare and community service, recognizing their unwavering commitment and dedication.
Honorees of the Evening
Dr. Julie Case
Dr. Julie Case, a distinguished graduate of Iowa State University (2012), was honored for her exemplary service in the veterinary profession. After beginning her career at Northeast Veterinary Clinic under the mentorship of Dr. Tom McCabe, she met her husband, Mac. In 2016, Dr. Case further honed her skills at the El Paso Animal Emergency Center, enhancing her expertise in diagnostics and surgery. Throughout her career, she has worked at several clinics across El Paso, including Foothills Animal Clinic, Eastlake Animal Clinic, and Banfield. In October 2025, she opened her own clinic, Lost Dog Vet, and was recognized for her leadership as EPVMA President in 2025. Her passion for animal care and community service has made a lasting impact on the local veterinary landscape.
El Paso Community Foundation (EPCF)
The El Paso Community Foundation was awarded the Community Involvement Award for its longstanding commitment to philanthropy in the region. For decades, EPCF has returned nearly $300 million to the community through various grants and initiatives. Their unwavering support for shelters, rescue organizations, and advocacy groups has reinforced the crucial role of animal welfare in fostering a compassionate community. EPCF has also convened the annual Animal Welfare Roundtable, which promotes collaboration among nonprofits and municipal partners to address challenges and identify service gaps. Their innovative Borderland Rescue Fund aims to meet urgent needs beyond standard grants, significantly impacting families and their pets by establishing initiatives like public pantries and walk-up pet food banks, providing over 100,000 pounds of food and supplies in just six months.
La Posada Home Inc.
La Posada home Incorporated was awarded the Special Recognition Award. Founded in 1986, La Posada Home Inc. provides vital shelter for survivors of domestic violence, homelessness, and crisis. Recognizing that healing encompasses the entire family—including companion animals—the organization has a long-standing policy of accepting survivors with their pets. This understanding of the essential emotional support animals provide allows survivors to escape dangerous situations without fear for their pets’ safety. La Posada Home’s compassionate approach highlights the interconnectedness of human and animal welfare.
The EPVMA’s 41st Annual Awards Ceremony was a celebration of the remarkable contributions of individuals and organizations committed to animal welfare and community service. As we honor these dedicated members of our community, we are reminded of the vital role that compassion and collaboration play in creating a better world for both people and animals. This event serves not only to recognize outstanding achievements but also to inspire continued commitment to animal welfare and community support. Together, we can build a compassionate future for all.