Continuing their partnership with the Mole Valley Community Fund, Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) recently organised a showcase celebration event at Fetcham Park to shine a light on the success of the Community Fund and look ahead to future MVDC match funding.
The Mole Valley Community Fund was launched in 2024 to operate a sustainable fund that would benefit local community projects and voluntary groups, through donations from local businesses and residents. It is administered and governed by the Community Foundation for Surrey.
Assembled on a glorious spring evening at the beautiful Fetcham Park, MVDC and Mole Valley Community Fund Board Members were joined by fund grant recipients, business ambassadors, potential donors and dignitaries Deputy Lord Lieutenant Neelam Devesher MBE DL, and High Sheriff of Surrey Joojse Hamilton.
Guests heard firsthand how grants have helped disadvantaged groups and communities across Mole Valley, and the value that such community collaboration can have.
In its first two years, the fund has awarded over £42,000 in grants to over 20 good-cause projects, including:
- Dorking Men’s Shed – for community projects to support wellbeing and reduce social isolation amongst men
- Jam Place (Leatherhead) – for the creation of a larger accessible space for children with SEND needs
- Patchwork Garden Project – for new storage facilities for a social horticultural project
- Trinity School Leatherhead – for the provision of new Chrome Books for pupils
- Leatherhead Youth Project – for new furniture for the youth café
- The Amber Foundation – for the installation of a new fast electric vehicle charging point
- Sight for Surrey (Ashtead) – for the creation of an inclusive space
- Brigette Trust Dorking – for support worker training
Since the event, MVDC has also committed to match fund eligible donations from small- and medium-sized businesses, to help further fund local good-cause projects. The proposed match funding – up to £2,500 per donation (maximum allocation £8,000) – will be available up until 31 March 2027.
Local not-for-profit organisations can apply to be considered for funding at any time throughout the year.
Councillor Paula Keay, MVDC Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy and Mole Valley Community Fund volunteer, said: “I am extremely proud that MVDC is supporting and helping to grow a culture of philanthropic giving amongst our local business community. The event at Fetcham Park was a truly heartwarming celebration of all that has been achieved and a positive look ahead to future possibilities, including the MVDC commitment to match funding.
“I was also delighted to be present to see Chair Alan Horden be presented with a Lord Lieutenant’s Award of Commendation for his continued and dedicated service. Very well-deserved Alan!”
