A sense of solidarity with underprivileged groups is characteristic of the society and institutions of Alava. Examples of this can be seen in the social services available for the elderly, the disabled and other socially handicapped groups. Furthermore, Alava boasts the highest numbers of blood and organ donors in the Spanish state.

The public institutions of Alava have pioneered the practice of dedicating a part of their yearly budgets to co-operation schemes involving third-world countries or people suffering from severe poverty anywhere in the world.