Inspire Confidence Inspire Hope

A new five-year plan was introduced during a strategy launch at a packed Middlehaven Suite at the Riverside on Sunday afternoon, shortly before Boro played out their only home friendly of the summer, a 1-1 draw with St Etienne.

Working to the motto, Inspire Confidence Inspire Hope, MFC Foundation has refocused the work undertaken to meet the social challenges of today

Speaking at the launch, Chair of Trustees Ray Mallon said: “There are a lot of people out there who are disadvantaged and we’re trying to give them a chance.

“Hope could be argued to be one of the best things in life, as hope can lead to ambition, aspiration, self-belief and greater self-esteem.”

The Foundation will continue to work in partnership with local services to help reduce social deprivation and support the positive action already taking place within the area. By using the power and influence of Middlesbrough Football Club, the Foundation will deliver bespoke programmes providing opportunities to raise aspirations and improve the life chances of people across local communities.

Continuing to focus on activities in four key areas – sport and physical activity, inclusion and community cohesion, health and well-being and education and employability, the Foundation will engage new ideas as we adapt to the changes and fresh challenges across all age groups in society.

Evidence of one project came during the afternoon when participants on a Kitchen Therapy Course, run in conjunction with the Foundation, Middlesbrough College and MasterChef quarter-finalist Matei Baran prepared and served canapes.