This week the Premier League is celebrating the incredible impact of football clubs in their local communities, as the Premier League Charitable Fund marks its 10th anniversary.
As part of the celebration, Jamie Wright - the Foundation of Light’s Managing Director - has been awarded a very special Premier League Award, recognising his outstanding contribution to the Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham communities.
Over the last 20 years, Jamie has played an integral part in the growth and development of the Foundation. Starting as a football coach, he has gone on to lead and create football development programmes which have resulted in tens of thousands of young people and families enjoying the game across the region.
Jamie has also played a critical role in using the power of football in schools to inspire and educate, including the roll out and integration of the Premier League Primary Stars and Inspires programmes in schools across the region.
Fluent in British Sign Language, Jamie’s passion is providing sporting opportunities for everyone, and he spearheaded the creation of the Foundation’s award-winning - and trailblazing - disability programmes which have had a positive impact on thousands of young people and their families.
On receiving his award, Jamie said, “I’m a bit surprised to be honest! I really love what I do and the Foundation is an incredible organisation which does so much for so many across the North East.
“I am proud to come to work each day and see the difference all of our fantastic staff are making. We have a phenomenal team here and none of us could do what we do without them.”
Lesley Spuhler OBE, the Foundation of Light’s Chief Executive said: “Well done Jamie. We are all so proud of what you have achieved. You have played an important part of what we have achieved over the last 20 years.
“You embody the culture of the Foundation and you are always an inspiration to the staff, as well as all of our participants.”
Earlier this year Jamie’s commitment and passion for disability sport was recognised when he picked up a Service to Sport Award at the North East Disability Awards.
The Premier League Charitable Fund was established 10 years ago to distribute funding provided by the Premier League to clubs across the entire football pyramid, to support those clubs in their delivery of community programmes.
110 professional football clubs from the Premier League to the National League have been working in their communities to engage those that need the greatest support, provide positive pathways and support mental and physical wellbeing.
