YEARBOOK REFLECTS ON 2018/19 SUCCESSES

Foundation of Light is proud to launch its latest Yearbook which celebrates our work in our communities and tells the stories of those whose lives we have helped to change. With the theme of ‘The Measure of Success’ 2018/19 has been one of the most transformational years within the Foundation’s history as we delivered 394,343 contact hours across the North East through our portfolio of award-winning programmes. Sir Bob Murray CBE, Foundation of Light’s Chair of Trustees said: “We continue to receive regional, national and international recognition accolades for our lifechanging work across Sunderland, South Tyneside and Durham communities; with a growing reputation for pushing boundaries, thinking differently and creating trailblazing programmes.

From humble beginnings 18 years ago to now over 100 full-time staff and a magnificent home in the Beacon, it is an honour to be at the helm of this fantastic and inspirational charity

“Despite our success we will never lose sight of why we are here and the difference we make every day by inspiring and supporting thousands of people across the region. “But sadly, we need to do more. We are living in challenging and ever-changing times…impacting the poorest, most isolated and overlooked members in our communities. “Now more than ever, the Foundation of Light matters. It matters to the whole community. It matters to the people of Sunderland, South Tyneside and Durham.” [embed]https://youtu.be/quLO9xvfP2g[/embed] A few of our highlights include:

• Worked with over 20,000 course registrants
• Supported 2,338 people with a disability
• Helped 1,099 young people and adults gain qualifications or accreditations
• Worked with over 280 businesses
• Supported 174 volunteers
• For every £1 invested in the Foundation £29 was saved in the public purse

Lesley Spuhler OBE, Foundation CEO added: “The opening of the Beacon of Light was a high point of my time as CEO; a new home to the Foundation and a stunning, physical representation of our work, and our role, within its community. “In its first year of operation, we’ve welcomed an average of 6,000 visitors a week through our doors and supported an additional 20,000 children, young people and families in sport, education or employability through our programmes. “I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for your support.  Whether you have been with us from the beginning, have only recently joined us or if this is your first interaction with us – thank you for being part of our story.”