Community Grants Fund | Community fundraising support

What is the Community Grants Fund?

The Community Grants Fund is available to all IVC Evidensia colleagues a way to boost their community fundraisers and donate to local charities they are passionate about. As soon as the application has been successful, their charitable efforts will be topped up by £1000, which is available once per year as a grant.

With the help of the Community Grants Fund, IVC Evidensia vets can not only make a difference to the animal welfare organisations they collaborate with, but also to the regional or national charities close to their hearts. Over the years, IVC Evidensia practices have raised money for food banks, mental health organisations, social community groups, and more.

In 2024, the Community Grants Fund supported over 200 community fundraisers, national charities, and non-profit organisations around the world. Through this opportunity, IVC Evidensia can continue to engage in local communities and be a positive influence in the wider veterinary sector, while aligning with the Positive Pawprint strategy: caring for patients, caring for people, caring for the planet.

Kiltwalk fundraiser for StreetVet

In April, Bishopbriggs Vet Centre entered the Glasgow Kiltwalk in aid of StreetVet – IVC Evidensia’s charity partner. StreetVet is a national animal charity dedicated to supporting the pets of people experiencing homelessness across the UK. By conducting regular local community outreach, StreetVet provides free veterinary care for homeless animals, ensuring essential treatments can be delivered.

Leading up to the 14-mile challenge, the Bishopbriggs team raised almost £1500 independently towards their overall goal of £2000. But thanks to a successful application to our Community Grants Fund, the team boosted their community fundraiser by £1000, helping them exceed their target.

Through this donation, Bishopbriggs Vet Centre is helping ensure the loving companions of people experiencing homelessness receive the medical care they need.

Read about the Bishopbriggs fundraiser

A Helping Hoof for Gareloch RDA

For many disabled children and adults, interacting with horses can be transformative. The Gareloch Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) provides this opportunity, offering therapeutic riding and carriage sessions that enhance mobility, communication, and social confidence.

In March, the Equine Vet Clinic in Inchinnan chose Gareloch RDA for their grant, helping support their charity's local community efforts. As a small local group, Gareloch RDA relies on donations to sustain its programmes and maintain benefits for riders.

By funding these initiatives, the Community Grants Fund plays a key role in strengthening local communities. It ensures inclusive spaces remain active, allowing more people to benefit from these life-changing experiences.

A Christmas Gift to Empower Disadvantaged Youth

Over Christmas, IVC Evidensia Farm Vets donated £2,000 through the Community Grants Fund to Farms for City Children, supporting their mission to give disadvantaged urban youth a taste of the farming life. During retreats, children engage in hands-on farming activities, such as beekeeping and sheep herding, learning valuable skills.

This donation plays a crucial role in supporting young people, helping them break free from daily struggles and discover new opportunities.

In addition to the donation, Farm Vets has pledged to offer advice, training, and host community fundraising events. This story highlights the power of the Community Grants Fund in both empowering young people and forging long-lasting partnerships to strengthen local communities.