Foundation of Light named Sunderland Law Society Charity of the Year

Foundation of Light is delighted to have been chosen as Sunderland Law Society’s charity partner for 2026.

As a result, Sunderland AFC’s official charity will benefit from the Society’s fundraising activities throughout the year.

Sunderland Law Society is a network of solicitors that promotes the legal profession and supports its members across Sunderland, Washington, and Chester-le-Street.

Each year, the Society selects a local charity to support, including fundraising at its Annual Dinner in November.

This year, funds raised will help Foundation of Light continue its mission to inspire, educate, and support people of all ages across the region through the power of football.

From employability mentoring for those not in work or education, to increasing access to sport for people of all ages and abilities, the Foundation is committed to improving lives across Sunderland, South Tyneside, and County Durham.

Support from local partners, including Sunderland Law Society, is vital in helping us achieve this goal.

“It’s fantastic to be working with Sunderland Law Society, an organisation that shares our commitment to the Wearside community,” said Lesley Spuhler, Chief Executive Officer at the Foundation of Light.

“We’re incredibly grateful to be chosen as their charity partner for 2026. Their support will make a real difference, helping us reach more people across the region and continue using the power of football to inspire, educate and improve lives.”

Paul McAlindon, President of the Sunderland Law Society, said: “Choosing the Foundation of Light as my charity was an easy decision to make. The Society wants to increase community ties and hopefully raise our visibility in the Sunderland area in doing so.

"Working with the Foundation allows us to do that and the aims of the Foundation are ones the Society wholeheartedly supports. The Foundation performs such a valuable service to the Sunderland community that the Society are proud to support it in any way we can. We look forward to a good working relationship over the next year and hopefully long into the future.”