Foundation of Light’s new ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ five-year strategy has been met with a great response as Sunderland AFC legend Kevin Ball hailed the “brilliant” work of the club’s official charity.
Speaking at the Business Breakfast event after the strategy was launched to partners and supporters, the former Black Cats captain said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the event.
“Listening to how people can explain the effect the Foundation has had on them individually, is brilliant. You hear stories of how it’s impacted on other people, if you listen to anybody that has come into the Foundation in recent years, they always tell you a story of the effect it’s had on them.
“Listening to Lesley [Spuhler] again this morning, it reinforced everything they do within the community and the opportunities they give to people.
“One of the young people turned around and said, ‘just walk through the door and there’s help for you,’ and that actually made me feel quite moved. You know it’s true, that if anybody came through that door, there we be someone to welcome them, to ask how they could help them.
“That, for me, is what the Foundation is all about, the welcoming attitude that they’ve got. It’s brilliant to be honest with you.”
Emma Joussemet, Head of Community Engagement at the Premier League, echoed Kevin’s enthusiasm for the Foundation of Light’s work.
“It was fantastic to see all the Foundation’s supporters and partners in the room and hearing about the plans for the next five years," Emma commented.
“It’s been a fantastic 25 years for already for the Foundation of Light and I’m excited for the Premier League to see what Sunderland and the Foundation of Light are going to do going forward.
“The Premier League has been really excited to have the Foundation of Light back, who have always been a brilliant advocate of community work and do a fantastic job.
"We’ve had a really busy season so far, off the pitch, with the Foundation of Light. Lots of visits, including the Minister for Education coming to visit one of the schools where the Foundation of Light deliver Premier League Inspires, and we’ve had a lot of great case studies along the way.
“It’s just brilliant to see the impact that the Foundation continues to have.”
Foundation of Light Chief Executive, Lesley Spuhler, added: “Our 25th anniversary gave us the opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come, but Brighter Tomorrow is about where we’re going next. After sharing our plans nationally at Westminster and locally with partners at the Beacon of Light, we’re proud to now open this strategy to our supporters and communities.
“The next five years are about working together to remove barriers, unlock potential and make sure everyone has the chance to thrive. Football gives us a powerful platform, but it’s people, our communities, supporters and partners, who make lasting change possible.”
The Brighter Tomorrow strategy is available to view now - Click Here
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