Foundation of Light celebrates 25 years of changing lives at Gala Awards Dinner

Foundation of Light celebrated 25 years of changing lives across the North East with a special Gala Awards Dinner bringing together supporters, partners and inspirational participants from across the region.

The landmark event at the Beacon of Light celebrated a quarter of a century of Sunderland AFC’s official charity using the power of football to improve lives and create opportunities.

Hosted by Frankie Francis and Sky Sports presenter Tom White, the evening welcomed representatives from Sunderland AFC, former Black Cats players, SAFC Women players, Foundation trustees, partners and supporters, with Foundation founder and Chair Sir Bob Murray CBE also in attendance.

The evening opened with a special performance from Sunderland’s own The Lake Poets, before guests heard powerful stories demonstrating the breadth of the Foundation’s work and the difference it continues to make across the region.

At the heart of the night were 17 awards recognising participants, volunteers and supporters whose stories showcased the impact of the Foundation.

From helping young people develop the skills and confidence to move into employment, to supporting physical and mental health, creating inclusive and accessible opportunities to take part in sport, and providing a pathway for the next generation of football talent, the awards brought the Foundation’s work to life.

They also demonstrated the breadth of a journey that can begin with the Foundation at a very young age and continue throughout a person’s life – providing opportunities, support and a sense of belonging when they need it most.

The Gala formed part of Foundation of Light’s 25th anniversary celebrations, marking a milestone year for a charity which has grown from its beginnings in 2001 to become one of the North East’s leading community organisations.

For 25 years, the Foundation has remained rooted in the communities it serves, using the unique power and reach of Sunderland AFC to connect with people and create opportunities across education, employability, sport, physical activity and health and wellbeing.

The celebrations continued late into the evening, with The SoundHouse Band bringing the night to a close with live music.

Foundation of Light Chief Executive Lesley Spuhler said: “Our 25th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate everything that has been achieved over the last quarter of a century, but this evening was really about the people who make the Foundation what it is.

“The 17 award winners represent thousands of people whose lives we have the privilege of being part of every year. Their stories show what can happen when people are given opportunities, encouragement and the right support.

“We are incredibly proud of our history and our connection to Sunderland AFC, but we are equally excited about what comes next and how we can continue to be there for our communities for generations to come.”

The event was supported by Main Event Sponsor Harrison Centre for Social Mobility and Co-Event Sponsors atom. and the University of Sunderland, alongside the Foundation’s partners and supporters.

MAKING AN IMPACT 

At the heart of the night were 17 awards recognising participants, volunteers and supporters whose stories showcased the impact of the Foundation across the North East.

Among those celebrated was Chloe Paxton, whose journey has taken her from the Foundation’s Girls Academy into the Sunderland AFC Women first team. Chloe’s story demonstrates the pathway the charity is helping to create for aspiring female footballers across the region, giving girls opportunities to play, develop and fulfil their potential.

The evening also celebrated Kevin Ramsey, whose involvement in the Foundation’s neurological football sessions has helped him remain active, support his physical health and build friendships. His story highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy physical activity, with 71% of participants in the programme reporting improvements in their physical health.

Chloe Constable was recognised following a transformational journey through the Foundation’s employability provision. After initially coming to the Youth Employment Hub with low confidence, Chloe received support to overcome barriers and take positive steps towards her future, ultimately progressing into employment. Her achievement demonstrates the role the Foundation plays in helping young people develop not only skills, but the confidence and belief needed to move forward.