SAFC legend Kevin Ball highlights amazing work of Foundation of Light at launch of Better Tomorrow initiative
Former captain and SAFC legend Kevin Ball has spoken about the “amazing” work of the Foundation of Light as the club’s official charity launched its new five-year strategy to continue to support disadvantaged people and communities across the region.
Kevin was speaking at the ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ breakfast event at the Beacon of Light.
Almost 100 guests attended the breakfast, sponsored by Aspire and hosted by Jeff Brown, with contributions from senior figures across football and the Premier League.
Kevin spoke about the power of sport to change lives, drawing on his own experiences and the Foundation’s long-standing role in supporting young people and communities.
He said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the event. Listening to people explain the effect the Foundation has had on them is brilliant. One of the young people said, ‘just walk through the door and there’s help for you’ and it just proves what an amazing place it is.”
Also speaking at the event was David Bruce, Chief Business Officer at Sunderland AFC, who highlighted the close relationship between the Club and the Foundation and their shared commitment to using football as a force for good.
A video message was sent by 121 time capped England Lioness, Steph Houghton, who spoke about the role the Foundation of Light played in her own football journey.
Over the next five years the Brighter Tomorrow strategy will focus on three key priorities; Being Skilled, Being Connected and Being Well.
To achieve these goals the Foundation plans to widen access to education, employability and training; strengthen community connection and inclusion; and improve physical and mental wellbeing through sport and activity.
Speaking at the event the Foundation’s Chief Executive Lesley Spuhler said: “Brighter Tomorrow sets out how we will work together to remove barriers, unlock potential and ensure that no one is left on the sidelines over the next five years.”