Sunderland AFC podcast Wise Men Say are producing a magazine to celebrate the Black Cats promotion to the Championship and Foundation of Light are set to reap the rewards.
The 48-page magazine titled ‘Goodbye to League One’ will see all its proceeds go to the Foundation – the football club’s official charity.
Serving as a memento for fans, the publication will feature fans’ accounts of the trip to Wembley as well as reflecting on all of the highs and lows of Sunderland’s four year stay in League One.
Ahead of the podcast’s sold-out promotion party on 18 June, Wise Men Say co-founder Gareth Barker lifted the lid on why SAFC’s longest running podcast decided to donate all of the proceeds to the Foundation. “The club is a massive part of the community and over the years, the Foundation has become just that too. It’s provided so much to so many people and continues to do so.
“I’m sure we’ve all benefitted from the facilities at the Beacon at WMS, but it’s just the greater community effect the charity has. It’s a more than worthy cause.”
Barker admits fellow Wise Men Say counterpart Richard Easterbrook has played a huge part in the development of the magazine and hinted at potential further magazines in the future. He said: "The website has gone from strength-to-strength since Richard took it under his wing and that has laid the basis for more consistent, solid writing. So the magazine is just an extension of this.
"We’ll see how well this is received and if there’s an opportunity to take it on maybe we will."
Foundation of Light Managing Director, Jamie Wright added: “We would like to thank Gareth, Richard and the rest of Wise Men Say for their support. All proceeds raised will continue to allow our communities to live happier and healthier lives.
“We are very excited to see the finished product and it’s a great memento for Sunderland fans to keep and look back on.”
The magazine costs £3 to purchase and will be available to purchase at POP Recs on the night of 18 June, or through the website either physically or digitally. Visit wisemensay.co.uk for further information.
Scores of youngsters enjoyed a day at the Beacon of Light with a difference thanks to Stagecoach Group after the UK's largest transport operator gave their backing to the Foundation's half-term holiday courses.
Foundation of Light is proud to announce the launch of its dedicated women’s mental health group, Believe.
On World Parkinson’s Day, Foundation of Light is reflecting on how our walking football sessions are making a difference for those living with the disease.