We were delighted to exhibit at the International Women’s Day event at the Northampton Guildhall on Saturday 7th March. Visitors were invited to explore how our grants help strengthen communities and create opportunities for women across the county.


Over the past decade, Northamptonshire Community Foundation has worked closely with AVON to support grant allocation and delivery across Northamptonshire. The AVON Fund for Women and Girls focuses particularly on smaller grassroots organisations, many of which are volunteer-led, ensuring that support reaches the women and girls who need it most.

Projects funded through this partnership have reached 1,655 direct beneficiaries. From wellbeing initiatives and therapeutic support to sports participation and skills development, the grants have enabled a wide range of organisations to make a meaningful difference.

For example, EVE has delivered occupational therapy-led courses and wellbeing activities for women and families who are survivors of domestic abuse. The Good Loaf CIC has supported women facing complex challenges through training, work placements and community initiatives, while Breast Friends Northampton has provided wellbeing activities for women living with breast cancer.

Other funded projects have empowered women and girls through education, confidence-building, and participation in sport. Organisations such as Northampton Gymnastics Academy, Vendetta Vixens Roller Derby, and North Northants Sports & Welfare Club have helped increase girls’ participation in physical activity, while groups like Inspiration FM Community Radio have given women and girls a platform to share their voices and stories.

The partnership has also supported women navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges. Projects led by The KidsAid Foundation, Relate Northamptonshire, Daventry Contact, and Service Six have provided therapeutic support, practical assistance, and safe spaces for women rebuilding their lives after trauma, abuse, or hardship.

Rachel McGrath, Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: "International Women’s Day reminds us of what’s possible when communities, charities, and businesses collaborate. Through partnerships like the AVON Fund, we can support grassroots organisations that change lives every day."

Maz Tyrrell, Global Retail Trading Specialist at AVON, added: "Being part of our local community and helping charities and businesses grow is at the heart of our purpose. By creating positive change, we aim to empower women and girls to reach their full potential without discrimination. To all the incredible organisations making a lasting impact on women and girls in our area, this International Women’s Day is a celebration of you."

The #GiveToGain theme also highlights the wider business community. Northamptonshire Community Foundation is honoured to be the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce’s Charity of the Year, and Rachel McGrath will chair the Women With Vision panel at the Business Chamber Expo, Thursday 19th March at Wicksteed Park, Kettering (12:15pm – 1:15pm).

Rachel will open the panel with a keynote on the power of purposeful giving to accelerate gender equality. Drawing on local stories and strategic insight, she will show how investing in women and girls strengthens leadership, drives innovation, and builds resilient communities, demonstrating that when women thrive, communities prosper and everyone gains.

Later this year, we will also celebrate 10 years of partnership with AVON at Lancaster House, Northampton – an event that will recognise inspiring women, share stories of impact, and highlight the power of collaboration in empowering women and girls across the county.

This year also marks an exciting milestone for NCF – 25 years of inspiring local giving for local needs. Building on this legacy, NCF is looking 25 years ahead, with bold ambition for a fairer, thriving, and more connected county for generations to come. This milestone highlights the impact of long-term partnerships like AVON and the many grassroots organisations we support across Northamptonshire.



International Women’s Day is a reminder that meaningful change happens when people and organisations unite with purpose. Through partnerships like the AVON Fund and the ongoing commitment of our local community, we can continue to empower women, strengthen communities, and create lasting impact across Northamptonshire.

To learn more about Northamptonshire Community Foundation, our grants, or to explore ways to give, please visit our website or speak to our team at upcoming events.