Wildlife Rehabilitation Certification Grants

The International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC) has developed the only internationally valid professional certification program for wildlife rehabilitators. Created in 2007 as a way to standardize the practices and procedures of the wildlife rehabilitation profession, the certification is an exam-based test open to all who apply. The IWRC promotes the certification process as a way for wildlife rehabilitators to show their commitment to the profession to grant organizations, veterinarians, members of the public and colleagues. A number of other certification programs are being developed at the state and national level in Canada and the United States, but the wildlife rehabilitation certification process remains a recent development. Thus, grants for certification programs are often included in general wildlife rehabilitation grants available to professionals and organizations.

  1. National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association

    • The National Wildlife Rehabilitator Association (NWRA) provides $6,000 in research grants every year. Research projects by individuals or organizations that deal with wildlife rehabilitation, medicine and education are all considered. Projects are assessed based on their usefulness for rehabilitators and for the likelihood of success. Though funding is not offered specifically for certification programs, the process can be incorporated into the proposed research project. Recipients of the NWRA grant are required to publish or present the results of their study within two years of receiving funding.

    Animal Welfare Trust

    • The Animal Welfare Trust gives out 10 to 15 grants each year. Grants range in size from $2,500 to $20,000. Projects aimed at changing public awareness and attitude to be more receptive toward the well-being of animals are given priority. The purpose of the Animal Welfare Trust grant program is to spread the philosophy of the organization by focusing on "informing, inspiring, and educating" the general public about animal welfare. General operating expenses of organizations, which can include certification of staff, are qualified for the grant.

    The William and Charlotte Parks Foundation for Animal Welfare

    • William and Charlotte Parks were animal rights activists and philanthropists who established a trust in order to fund six animal welfare organizations. Half of the trust funds these organizations while the other half is distributed in grants to individual projects, both domestic and international. Individuals and organizations with 501(c)3 status are eligible to apply. In 2007, the trust awarded six operating grants, three project grants and four international grants totaling over $90,000.

    The Fuller Foundation

    • Established by Massachusetts politician Alvan Fuller, the purpose of the Fuller Foundation is to support non-profit organizations that improve the quality of life for people, animals and the environment. Specific grants are available to organizations working with wildlife. The Fuller Foundation seeks to fund projects and organizations that work to support a healthy wildlife population and protect endangered species. While the foundation does not fund individuals, funds are available for general operating expenses of organizations that can include certification programs.