Foundation of Light joins European Football for Development Network

The official charity of Sunderland AFC, the Foundation of Light, has joined of the European Football for Development Network (EFDN). EFDN is a network of more than 100 European professional football clubs, leagues and associations who understand, and are committed to, their social responsibilities and have the passion to cooperate and engage on a European level. The members also benefit from strategic partnerships with the European Union, ECA, UEFA Foundation for Children, Fare network, Centre for Access on Football (CAFE), the Football Club Social Alliance (FCSA), and European Healthy Stadia Network. All EFDN members are united in the belief that football has the power to change lives; improving health and well-being outcomes, promoting social inclusion and aid in tackling issues such as racism, youth employability skills and school attendance. Football-based programmes can help to create positive community role models and provide a unique platform to inspire and unite people both within their local communities and as part of the larger European family. The Foundation, together with the other network members, will share knowledge and experiences on a European level to enhance the quality and efficiency of national and local football for development initiatives and inspire all professional football organisations to become socially responsible and community-engaged. Staff and participants will take part in European exchange programmes, international conferences, have access to the EFDN Online Learning Platform and the EFDN Networking App, as well as support the development of European-wide community programmes. Foundation of Light managing director, Jamie Wright said “We are really looking forward to being part of the European Football for Development Network and playing our part in supporting the “go-to” organisation on Community and Social Responsibility in European Football.

Over the last 20 years we have used the power of football to inspire thousands of people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham to change and improve their lives.

"As a part of EFDN, we are looking forward to sharing ideas about how we can improve our services but also sharing our experiences which may help other clubs not only in the UK but across Europe.”