Bristol Bears have been a part of Bristol since 1888. Over those 137 years, through ups and downs, this much-beloved rugby club has been a cornerstone of the local and regional community. However, since 2006, the Bristol Bears Community Foundation was set up to tackle education, inclusion, health, and social change across the region through its award-winning programmes.
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Break The Cycle 2025
One of the flagship events is ‘Break The Cycle,’ an annual cycling fundraiser. Scheduled for Sunday, June 29, 2025, the event offers three routes—Gold, Silver, and Bronze—catering to cyclists of all abilities. This initiative not only promotes physical fitness but also raises vital funds to support the Foundation’s community programmes.
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Inclusive Community Sport
While Bristol Bears are currently in second spot in the elite Premiership rugby, they haven’t forgotten that inclusivity is at the heart of rugby. The ‘Inclusive Community Sport’ programme offers pathways for adults to engage in activities like wheelchair rugby, ensuring that sports are accessible to all, regardless of physical ability.
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Bear In Mind Programme
The ‘Bear In Mind’ programme focuses on mental health and well-being. Recently, players from the Bears Women’s team led sessions addressing the impact of social media and the importance of positive relationships. These workshops aim to incorporate physical activity into daily routines, enhancing both physical and mental health, and building self-esteem among participants.
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Bright Sparks
Established to engage and educate young people facing various challenges, the ‘Bright Sparks’ program utilises sport to equip them with essential skills and confidence, enhancing their educational journey and broadening their future prospects. The programme spans an entire academic year, offering insightful and creative workshops in collaboration with a range of employers.
Community Engagement and Fundraising
The Foundation’s impact is amplified through robust community engagement and fundraising efforts. The recent Bristol Sport 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner raised £40,000 to tackle deep-rooted inequalities faced by children, young people, and their communities.
Additionally, The Genge Fund donated £4,000 to support the ‘Bright Sparks’ educational programme, and TrustFord raised £6,000 through test-drive initiatives, directly benefiting the Foundation’s projects.
Impact on Bristol
Bristol Bears’ community-driven events do more than bring people together—they make a real impact on physical health, mental well-being, and social inclusion across the city. With star players like Ilona Maher raising the club’s profile, more people are getting involved in sport, while fundraising efforts support education and grassroots programmes. By tackling social inequalities and strengthening local connections, the club is shaping a more inclusive and engaged Bristol.