Ms. Valletta's first act? Striking a pose for IFAW's Tails for Whales campaign (www.ifaw.org/tailsforwhales). A call to action to protect the majestic marine species, Tails for Whales is a visual petition - an ever growing collection of photos with individuals' hands posed in the shape of a whale's tail. Ms. Valletta joins a troupe of celebrities, public figures and everyday individuals raising their hands in support of whale conservation. Actors Goran Visnjic, Joely Fisher, Kristin Bauer, Ben Stein and Dylan Walsh, as well as authors, athletes, musicians and world renowned scientists, are among the familiar faces that have already posed and leant their support for the campaign.

"Amber's passionate efforts to create greater awareness about the environmental issues facing our planet and its wildlife are remarkable," said Fred O'Regan, President and CEO, IFAW. "To have Amber share her voice with IFAW is an absolute privilege."

"I am so proud to be a part of this fantastic organization," said Ms. Valletta. "From saving the magnificent whales to the iconic polar bears, IFAW has done wonders to protect wildlife populations. I am excited to join the cause and help spread the word about IFAW's campaigns."

Ms. Valletta joins Leonardo DiCaprio, Keely and Pierce Brosnan, Ben Stein, Hal Prince, and Goran Visnjic as a member of IFAW's Honorary Board of Directors. Her new clothing line, Amber Valletta for Monrow, launches at the LA-based Ron Herman boutique in November.

About the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)

As one of the world's leading animal welfare organization, IFAW has representation in 16 countries and carries out its animal welfare work in more than 40. IFAW works from its global headquarters in the United States and focuses its campaigns on improving the welfare of wild and domestic animals by reducing the commercial exploitation of animals, protecting wildlife habitats, and assisting animals in distress. IFAW works both on the ground and in the halls of government to safeguard wild and domestic animals and seeks to motivate the public to prevent cruelty to animals and to promote animal welfare and conservation policies that advance the well-being of both animals and people. For more information on IFAW, visit www.ifaw.org; become a Facebook fan; follow IFAW on Twitter. Tails for Whales can be found at www.ifaw.org/tailsforwhales.

Source: International Fund for Animal Welfare