Animals Lebanon took center stage for animal welfare in Lebanon less than two years ago, but the determination of its five founders quickly built a movement involving schools and businesses that has spayed and neutered 600 animals in that time and rescued countless more.

This month, the group held its first Gala for Change in the majestic Palais Mouawad Gardens where 350 people from all sectors of society came together for the sold out event raising nearly $45,000 to support the vital work.

The Palace Gardens is known as one of the most beautiful locations in Beirut, but it was given that special ‘animal' touch. A vegetarian dinner was served, while the tables were decorated with animal shapes and pots of natural grass and local flowers.

A film was shown after opening speeches to illustrate the need for animal welfare legislation. The group is working to draft a law for Lebanon, which lacks any animal welfare law whatsoever that would protect stray or homeless animals.

After the entertainment and raffle, guests walked away with an Animals Lebanon eco-bag filled with gifts from the sponsors.

Support the effort with a donation on their website: www.animalslebanon.org.