Foundation kicks off anniversary celebrations

A North East community organisation has launched a year of anniversary celebrations as it reflects on decades of impact and sets out ambitions for the future.

The Foundation of Light, Sunderland AFC’s official charity, has officially kicked off its 25th anniversary year with a landmark celebration event at the Houses of Parliament, bringing together national leaders, partners and supporters to recognise a quarter-century of work across the region. 

Hosted in the Churchill Room at Westminster and sponsored by the Premier League, the event, which was opened by Lewis Atkinson, MP for Sunderland Central, and hosted by TV architect George Clarke, who hails from Washington, in Tyne and Wear, welcomed more than 60 guests, including MPs, community leaders and long-standing supporters.

The celebration marked the scale and reach of the Foundation’s work, which has supported thousands of people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham through education, health, sport and employability programmes. 

Personal journeys shaped by the Foundation’s initiatives were also highlighted, including that of former Lioness Steph Houghton, who began her football journey with the Foundation and appeared via video message, underlining the long-term difference its work continues to make in local communities.

Foundation trustee George said: “The Foundation has grown from a local initiative into one of the most impactful community organisations in the North East. 

“With the support of its partners, it has worked with over half a million people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham, helping young people and their families improve their skills, confidence, health and happiness, no matter who they are.”

Foundation of Light trustee and TV architect George Clarke speaking at the event

Guests were also given an early look at the Foundation of Light’s new five-year strategy ahead of its official launch later this month.

The strategy sets out plans to deepen and expand its impact, building on existing programmes while responding to emerging challenges facing communities across the North East.

Sunderland AFC chief operating officer David Bruce also spoke at the event

As the Foundation enters its next chapter, the focus remains on creating opportunity, building confidence and offering hope to young people and families across the region. 

Lesley Spuhler, chief executive of the Foundation of Light, added: “For 25 years the Foundation of Light has stood alongside our communities, helping people believe in themselves, build confidence and unlock their potential.

“Launching our anniversary year here at Westminster, surrounded by partners and supporters who share that belief, sends a powerful message about what we’ve achieved together and about the ambition we hold for the next chapter.”

Lesley Spuhler, chief executive of the Foundation of Light

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