Wear 25: Emily turns passion for football into coaching experience
Emily Burns has become the Foundation of Light’s latest Wear 25 Award winner in recognition of her personal development and commitment as a volunteer across a range of events.
Foundation of Light Commercial Director, Phil King, said: “The Foundation of Light is one of the UK’s leading football foundations, delivering over 40 sport, education, employability and health programmes across the North East. Over the past 18 years we have improved the lives of over 400,000 people in our community.Just one boot tile provides us with enough funding to run a disability sports session for 70 children or give 30 secondary school children the chance to take part programmes teaching them employability skills.“Since we opened the doors to the award-winning Beacon of Light, we have seen over 6,000 people a week visit the building, making it one the busiest destinations in Sunderland. It is becoming a much-loved community hub with opportunities for all. “The Friends of the Foundation wall will really add to our visitor experience, as well as showcase our Friends who are helping us make a real difference to local lives.”
Emily Burns has become the Foundation of Light’s latest Wear 25 Award winner in recognition of her personal development and commitment as a volunteer across a range of events.
Foundation of Light proudly represented Sunderland AFC at the 2026 Premier League Kicks Cup national finals at St George's Park National Football Centre.
Foundation of Light is teaming up with Men's Pie Club to bring a new weekly group to the Beacon of Light, creating a relaxed space where men can connect, make pies and enjoy good conversation.