Rock fans use Pearl Jam Scotland Fundraising Fan Group to raise diabetes funds

A grunge and rock fan from Coatbridge has turned his love of music and passion for Seattle rock band Pearl Jam into a movement whose mission is to raise awareness about diabetes.

Martin Higgins, along with Kirkintilloch man Colin Rodger, are collecting vital funds for Diabetes UK through The Pearl Jam Scotland Fundraising Fan Group, which spans the globe and has so far raised more than £100,000 for the charity.

Martin and Colin both have family members who live with type 1 diabetes.

Martin explained: “We know what we are doing has reached the attention of Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder and other people in the music industry.

“At some of their concerts they have acknowledged how we have helped some people in need of a little help in life.

“The foundation of what Colin and I do is music related. Colin is lead singer in a grunge and rock band, The Lost Dogs, and I am a huge music fan – and fan of Pearl Jam in particular.

“Colin and I were both involved separately in fundraising. Motivated and united behind us both having family members who live with type 1 diabetes, we decided to combine our respective skills to create a fundraising community – and so the Pearl Jam Scotland Fundraising Fan Group was born.”

Over a 10-year period, the Pearl Jam Scotland Fundraising Fan Group has grown to 3300 members who follow Colin and Martin on Facebook, made up of people from all walks of life from all over the world.

Members connect online and get together in person to talk, listen to, play and celebrate music – but with a difference.

Colin and Martin use the platform and what they do to tie in opportunities to carry out charitable work, not only to support Diabetes UK, but more broadly, reaching out to assist people in need, and freely volunteering their time to do so.

When it comes to fundraising, the pair are always looking for ways to innovate.

They host live music events, sell branded music clothing and memorabilia, and hold raffles. They have even created and sold a charity album.

Their biggest event is called Grungefest which takes place every year in September.

This is a live music showcase in Glasgow and bands and music fans travel from all over the UK to attend it.

Colin said: “We like to be as creative as possible. We have music fans from all over the world in our community group.

“What’s important to us is raising money to go to good causes and that we are also raising awareness of diabetes, a condition close to both of our hearts.”

While Pearl Jam has not played in Scotland since 2000, the US band is performing in Manchester this month and to mark the occasion, as well as a decade of fundraising, Colin and Martin are hosting a charity pre-party event in the English city ahead of their idol’s concert later that evening.

The Fundraising Fan Group is proudly presenting a Pearl Jam Manchester pre-show gathering at the Hard Rock Cafe Manchester on June 25, from 12-5pm.

The ticket price guarantees entry, two raffle tickets for a prize draw, live music and Pearl Jam memorabilia that you can have your photo taken with.

Martin and Colin have also extended an invitation to Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder.

Martin said: “We know what we are doing has reached the attention of Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder and other people in the music industry.

“At some of their concerts they have acknowledged how we have helped some people in need of a little help in life.

“The pre-show event is shaping up to be a fantastic afternoon and the perfect preparation and warm up for the concert in the evening. If Eddie manages along, that’d be the icing on the cake.”

Colin and Martin have been shortlisted for Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year in National Fundraising Awards 2024.

Hosted by the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, the awards celebrate and recognise the achievements of “truly remarkable fundraisers who, in extraordinary ways, have made the world a better place.”.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on the evening of July 3 in London.

Fiona Stewart, Community Fundraiser, Diabetes Scotland said: “Diabetes UK’s work is much needed and wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and generosity of our incredible fundraisers.

“We are extremely grateful to Colin and Martin for everything they have done over the past 10 years, and for the remarkable amount of money Pearl Jam Scotland members have raised.

“Reaching the milestone of raising £100,000 is testament to the unwavering commitment, passion, and the countless hours they have both devoted to our cause.

“Being shortlisted for Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year in the National Fundraising Awards 2024 is hugely well deserved.

“Demand for our services is increasing all the time. Funds raised go towards Diabetes UK care and support services, advice and guidance, and pioneering research that help change the lives of those living with diabetes.”

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