Celebrating success: The AVMF District Donor Challenge
The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) District Donor Challenge, which ran from early April through June 20, concluded with resounding success. The fundraising campaign, designed to engage American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) members and raise support for the four crucial AVMF pillars—charitable care, disaster relief, scholarships, and research—achieved remarkable results, thanks to the generosity and commitment of the veterinary community.
On June 21, during the House of Delegates meeting at the AVMA Convention 2024, Dr. Lori Teller, AVMF Immediate Past Chair, proudly announced the results of the campaign. Here are the highlights:
Top Districts
- First Place: District 6
- States: Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin
- Representative: Jim Weisman, DVM
- Second Place: District 5
- States: Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, and West Virginia
- Representative: Robert Knapp, DVM
- Third Place: District 11
- States: Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming
- Representative: Sandy Willis, DVM, MVSc, DACVIM
Matching and total funds raised
In total, $67,000 was raised, showcasing the dedication of all to these vital programs.
Approximately $17,000 came directly from the AVMA House of Delegates (HOD) and AVMA members, The Auxiliary to the AVMA generously matched $50,000, significantly boosting the campaign’s impact.
Participation and new donors
A commendable 68 members of the HOD made contributions during the challenge. Notably, 13% of these were first-time donors, reflecting the growing support and awareness for AVMF’s mission within our community.
Acknowledgements
This achievement would not have been possible without the collective efforts of many. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to:
- Jim Weisman, DVM (District 6), Robert Knapp, DVM (District 5), and Sandy Willis, DVM, MVSc, DACVIM (District 11) as well as the other District leaders for their leadership and inspiring dedication.
- The Auxiliary to the AVMA, for their incredibly generous $50,000 match.
- All 68 HOD members who contributed, especially the 9 first-time donors, for their willingness to support these critical programs.
The AVMF Development Council who assisted in outreach to HOD members
- The AVMA members across all districts, whose contributions, big and small, collectively made a significant impact.
Building on success at the AVMA Convention
Overall, the 2024 AVMA Convention was a record fundraising year for the AVMF raising more than $29,000. In addition to the gifts from the HOD and members, the AVMF was the primary beneficiary of the Hills sponsored Art Auction which contributed $10,000 to the overall amount raised.
Looking ahead
The success of the AVMF District Donor Challenge and the AVMA Convention not only demonstrates the generosity of our community but also highlights the collective commitment to advancing veterinary medicine and supporting those in need. As we celebrate this achievement, let us continue to build on this momentum and strive for even greater heights in the future.
Thank you to everyone who contributed, participated, and supported these campaigns. Together, we are making a difference.