(Image: David Lawson)
Sunderland AFC’s charity arm has marked 25 years of changing lives with a special awards night.
The Foundation of Light marked the milestone with a gala dinner at the Beacon of Light, bringing together supporters, partners and participants from across the region.
The event honoured 17 winners whose stories reflect the charity’s impact across the North East, from education and employment to sport, health and wellbeing.
Lawsons (Image: David Lawson)
Lesley Spuhler, chief executive of the Foundation of Light, said: "Our 25th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate everything that has been achieved over the last quarter of a century, but this evening was really about the people who make the Foundation what it is.
"The 17 award winners represent thousands of people whose lives we have the privilege of being part of every year.
"Their stories show what can happen when people are given opportunities, encouragement, and the right support."
Left, Peter Reid, Kevin Ball, Marco Gabbiadini, Danny Collins, Kevin Phillips, Stefan Schwarz, Gordon Armstrong, Paul Thirlwell, Gary Bennett and Nyron Nosworthy (Image: David Lawson)
Since launching in 2001, the foundation has used football to engage, inspire and support people of all ages and backgrounds.
Chloe Paxton was among the winners after progressing from the foundation’s Girls Academy to Sunderland AFC Women’s first team.
Her journey shows how the charity develops young talent and supports women’s football.
Sir Bob Murray and former SAFC midfielder Stefan Schwarz (Image: David Lawson)
Kevin Ramsey was honoured for taking part in the foundation’s neurological football sessions.
The sessions help participants stay active, improve their health and build social connections.
The foundation says 71 per cent of participants have seen their physical health improve.
Guest auctioneer Kevin Phillips (Image: David Lawson)
Chloe Constable was honoured for progressing through the foundation’s employability services.
She joined the Youth Employment Hub with low confidence, then received tailored support to overcome barriers and move into work.
Her story shows how the foundation helps young people build the skills and confidence to succeed.
Kevin Phillips Florent Ghisolfi Marco Gabbiadini (Image: David Lawson)
Ms Spuhler said: "We are incredibly proud of our history and our connection to Sunderland AFC, but we are equally excited about what comes next and how we can continue to be there for our communities for generations to come."
Frankie Francis and Sky Sports presenter Tom White hosted the gala, which opened with a performance by Sunderland musician The Lake Poets.
Guests included Sunderland AFC representatives, former players, SAFC Women players, foundation trustees and supporters.
The Lake Poets (Image: David Lawson)
Foundation founder and chair Sir Bob Murray CBE also attended.
The evening ended with live music from The SoundHouse Band.
Harrison Centre for Social Mobility was the event’s main sponsor, alongside co-sponsors atom. and the University of Sunderland.