Foundation of Light – Changing lives for 25 years across Sunderland

Twenty-five years ago, a new voice for the Northeast flickered into life. The Foundation of Light was launched with a mission that went far beyond football.  

Built alongside Sunderland AFC, the charity set out to harness that unifying power of the club to tackle some of the region’s biggest social challenges – from education and youth work to health and community work. 

A quarter of a century later, that mission has touched hundreds of thousands of lives across Wearside and beyond. What began as a community initiative, it has now grown into one of the largest football-club charities in the country, delivering programs in schools, community centres and neighbourhoods across the region. 

What it means…:  

This milestone offers a chance to reflect on how a football club’s community arm evolved into a regional institution and how its work continues to shape opportunities for the younger generation, families and vulnerable people in Sunderland. 

For those who have been part of the journey since day one, this milestone is a moment of profound reflection.

Picture from the 2024 sleep-out event at the Stadium of Light / Credits: info@foundationoflight.co.uk

 

In an interview with Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation of Light, Jamie Wright, has stated: “It’s obviously a really important milestone for the foundation because I’ve been here that full 25 years, it’s great to see the impact that we’ve made in our communities. 

 Surprising evolution beyond the pitch:  

While many might expect a football-linked charity to focus solely on the “beautiful game,” the Foundation’s true legacy lies in its ability to adapt.  

Over the last two decades, they have expanded their reach into the corners of society where support is needed most. The Foundation has shifted its focus to address the holistic needs of the region, moving far beyond simple sports coaching. 

Their impact is now felt across four critical pillars, which are physical activity, employability & skills, health & well-being and education. 

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and how we’ve evolved as an organization over 25 years. To stay relevant and important to the communities we work in is everything.” 

The flagship: Family learning: 

If there is one program that captures the essence of the Foundation, it’s the “Family learning model”. Born over 20 years ago from a school’s plea to help engage parents, this program has grown into the organization’s flagship initiative.  

“It is no longer just about getting parents through the school gates. Today, the program offers a holistic suite of support healthy cooking – teaching families how to fuel themselves on a budget, mental health, by providing emotional toolkits for parents and children alike and lastly academic Support which are specialized sessions in math’s and English to help students navigate the pressure of SATs.”, Wright added. 

 

Beacon of light / Photo taken by Nikolas Michail 

The shield: Youth diversion and guidance: 

Perhaps the most critical work happens behind the scenes with the region’s youth. The Foundation doesn’t just provide a place to play, and it also provides a path away from danger. 

By partnering with agencies like the police, the Foundation delivers high-stakes diversionary activities. Whether it is mentoring young people at risk of anti-social behaviour or working directly with those impacted by knife crime, the goal is clear: diversion through engagement. 

“We work in areas that really support other agencies to make a bigger and more long-lasting impact. We divert [young people] away from anti-social behaviour.” 

 

The Sunderland AFC effect: Breaking down barriers: 

In the world of community outreach, many organisations offer coaching, classes and career advice. At the Foundation of Light there is a “secret ingredient” that not many providers can replicate and that’s the red and white stripes of Sunderland AFC. 

 

As the Foundation celebrates its 25th years anniversary, it is clearer than ever that the club’s badge is more than just a logo, it’s a key that unlocks doors that might otherwise remain shut. 

 “That instantly breaks down barriers. We are talking about reading but maybe reading a match-day program or an interview with Granit Xhaka.  That instantly gets you that buy-in. The club badge brings these things to life. In terms of engagement with the players, it’s been good over the years. I think the players are role models.”  

Beacon of light / Photo taken by Nikolas Michail 

Ending the “bag of balls” era: 

In the early days, the Foundation’s approach was often singular showing up with a “bag of balls” and the belied that football alone could fix every social illness. Today the vision is one of deep, radical collaborations. 

“There probably was a period where we used to turn up with our bag of balls on our backs thinking we can solve all the world’s problems. We now recognise that the power of collaboration now is very critical and important. 

The Foundation now recognises that they are part of a larger ecosystem. To make a lasting impact they are deeping their ties with local counsils, police, health services and universities. 

Beacon of light / Photo taken by Nikolas Michail 

A legacy in numbers: The next 25 years of Light: 

As the Foundation of Light marks its 25th year, the scale of is achievement is written in the data. What began as a local initiative has grown into a regional powerhouse that has now touched the lives of over 500,000 people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham. 

The “bag of ball” may have been the starting point, but the current reality is far more sophisticated. 

Today, they engage with over 33.000 course registrants annually. Partners with more than 100 local schools to bridge the education gap. It also supports over 1,400 families through its flagship learning program and lastly, it helps nearly 1,500 people each year gain life-changing qualifications and employment. 

 

Link to Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7fqfaNWt-c