Reflecting on 2025, Looking Ahead to 2026
As we step into 2026 - a milestone year marking the 25th Anniversary of the Anthony V. Martin Charitable Foundation - we pause to reflect on a year defined by action, advocacy, and tangible change for animals around the world. From the halls of the UK Parliament to remote rural communities across Europe, North Africa, and Southeast Asia, 2025 was about strengthening the foundations that allow animal welfare organisations to do their life-saving work—today and for years to come.
Advocacy Where It Matters Most
In 2025, the Foundation continued to champion systemic change by supporting advocacy at the highest level:
Ending Trophy Hunting Imports
We proudly supported a powerful photographic exhibition at the Houses of Parliament, shining a light on the realities of trophy hunting. Later in the year, we joined Sir Roger Gale MP and leading conservation voices in the Jubilee Room to mark ten years of campaigning—and to renew calls for an end to trophy imports into the UK.Recognising a Lifetime of Commitment
Our Founder and Chair, Anthony Martin CBE, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education by the University of Buckingham, recognising decades of dedication to animal welfare, philanthropy, and compassionate leadership.
These moments reflect a continued commitment to advocacy that extends beyond individual projects—supporting change not only on the ground, but within the systems and institutions that shape the future of animal welfare.
Strengthening the Global Rescue Network
Across borders and continents, our 2025 grant-making was guided by a simple principle: equip frontline charities with the practical tools they need to operate safely, effectively, and at scale. From preventive programmes to essential vehicles and equipment, each grant was designed to remove barriers and strengthen long-term impact.
In Thailand
We supported the Soi Dog Foundation’s world-leading CNVR (Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return) programme, helping to prevent suffering before it starts and reduce street dog populations humanely and sustainably.In Morocco & Ibiza
Funding was provided for vital new rescue vehicles for Jarjeer Mules and Care4Cats Ibiza, ensuring injured and vulnerable animals can be reached quickly and transported safely when time matters most.In Egypt
Life-saving equine dental equipment was supplied to Animal Care in Egypt (ACE), where more than 60 working animals receive treatment every day—improving welfare, comfort, and long-term health.In Italy
A new tractor for Rifugio Jill Phipps transformed the sanctuary’s ability to maintain safe, accessible land, directly improving daily care for rescued animals.
Together, these grants reflect a focus on infrastructure that endures—quietly enabling charities around the world to do more, reach further, and deliver lasting change for animals in their care.
Closer to home, the Foundation continued to support UK-based charities in strengthening their facilities, services, and long-term resilience—helping organisations continue their amazing work.
Infrastructure & Facilities
Funding supported the creation of a new “Hogspital” at Prickles and Paws, alongside a long-awaited “dream barn” for the 35 permanent residents at Blue Acre Horse Rescue, a new van for Pennine Pen, and a gazebo for Leonie at Pups and Paws and vital infrastructure upgrades at Ivy Dene Rabbit Rescue.Community Care
A £15,000 grant enabled StreetVet to continue providing emergency veterinary care for pets belonging to people experiencing homelessness—ensuring vulnerable people are not forced to choose between their own wellbeing and that of their animals.Cause for Celebration
A standout moment was celebrating the BBC Radio Cornwall Award nomination of Maria’s Animal Shelter—a recognition of the dedication and impact of grassroots rescue work, and one that couldn’t have been more deserved. Maria is a superstar!
Supporting UK Charities
New Fundraising Resources
While we strive to support as many organisations as possible through our grant programmes, we know that financial funding is only one part of the puzzle. In 2025, we launched a new Fundraising Resources section to help charities build the internal systems they need to reach more donors, partners, and volunteers.
Our goal is to share the digital tools and strategies that are often out of reach for smaller teams. This year, we introduced guides on Automating LinkedIn Outreach, securing $10,000 monthly in Google Ad Grants, and setting up raffals and prize draws. We also shared resources on running digital competitions and using AI to turn photos into videos. This library will continue to grow, with upcoming guides on corporate sponsorship, AI chatbots, and online donation stores—all designed to help animal welfare organisations save time and focus on their vital mission.
A Vision for the Future
As we step into 2026, we do so with a deep sense of pride and purpose. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Anthony V. Martin Charitable Foundation, a milestone that reflects a quarter of a century of compassion, commitment, and belief in doing what is right for animals—wherever the need exists.
Our anniversary year will be both a celebration and a renewal: a chance to honour the charities and people who make this work possible, to reflect on how far we have come together, and to look ahead with ambition and optimism.
We are incredibly excited for what lies ahead—and deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey so far. Together, we move into our 25th year with clarity, confidence, and an unwavering commitment to creating a kinder future for animals.