Celtic FC Foundation takes a giant leap forward in London with a new initiative aimed at empowering girls from underprivileged backgrounds through football. The foundation, which has been working tirelessly to provide meaningful change for people in their communities since its inception in 2013, has set its sights on the vibrant city of London.
The programme, dubbed "In our DNA," brings together local coaches and teams to form a network that will provide girls with access to football training, mentorship, and support. The initiative is just one of several launched by the foundation since its arrival in London, which includes another scheme based in Hackney called Breaking Barriers, aimed at integrating refugee and asylum-seeking communities through the sport.
The story behind Celtic FC Foundation's commitment to social responsibility dates back to 1887 when Brother Walfrid, a Marist Brother from Ireland, founded the club with the aim of providing hot meals for Irish immigrants. Today, the foundation continues this legacy by working in Glasgow, but also expanding its reach beyond Scotland to cities across England and the United States.
"We've got a relationship with the school and the church that Brother Walfrid went to in Underwood Road in Whitechapel," says Tony Hamilton, the foundation's chief executive. "It stemmed out into various parts and we're thriving in London at the moment." The economy in London is different from Glasgow, but the foundation has adapted to raise funds through charity events such as golf days and a biannual legends match.
While the programme faces no shortage of challenges, the foundation remains committed to its core values of social responsibility. "We've got a really strong social conscience," says Hamilton. "A lot of our supporters support what we do, and they enable us to reach so many people." The foundation is mainly funded by Celtic FC itself and also relies on commercial partners, but it's clear that the real driving force behind this initiative is the generosity and dedication of its supporters.
At a time when football can be an inclusive sport for all, the Celtic FC Foundation's commitment to empowering girls from underprivileged backgrounds will help inspire the next generation of players.
The programme, dubbed "In our DNA," brings together local coaches and teams to form a network that will provide girls with access to football training, mentorship, and support. The initiative is just one of several launched by the foundation since its arrival in London, which includes another scheme based in Hackney called Breaking Barriers, aimed at integrating refugee and asylum-seeking communities through the sport.
The story behind Celtic FC Foundation's commitment to social responsibility dates back to 1887 when Brother Walfrid, a Marist Brother from Ireland, founded the club with the aim of providing hot meals for Irish immigrants. Today, the foundation continues this legacy by working in Glasgow, but also expanding its reach beyond Scotland to cities across England and the United States.
"We've got a relationship with the school and the church that Brother Walfrid went to in Underwood Road in Whitechapel," says Tony Hamilton, the foundation's chief executive. "It stemmed out into various parts and we're thriving in London at the moment." The economy in London is different from Glasgow, but the foundation has adapted to raise funds through charity events such as golf days and a biannual legends match.
While the programme faces no shortage of challenges, the foundation remains committed to its core values of social responsibility. "We've got a really strong social conscience," says Hamilton. "A lot of our supporters support what we do, and they enable us to reach so many people." The foundation is mainly funded by Celtic FC itself and also relies on commercial partners, but it's clear that the real driving force behind this initiative is the generosity and dedication of its supporters.
At a time when football can be an inclusive sport for all, the Celtic FC Foundation's commitment to empowering girls from underprivileged backgrounds will help inspire the next generation of players.
just think about it, 32% of London's population lives below poverty line 
and yet this programme is aiming to make a difference in the lives of these girls 
. The fact that they're using football as their tool for empowerment is genius, studies show that female participation in sports increases by 22% when girls have positive role models 
. I'm loving how Celtic FC Foundation has adapted their funding model, £1.5m raised from charity events is not bad 
. Breaking Barriers scheme is also a great initiative to integrate refugee communities through football, it's estimated that 75% of refugees in the UK don't know anyone in their community 
. I'm all for it!
, it's amazing that they're taking the initiative to empower these young girls through football and mentorship. I mean, it's not just about giving them a platform to play footy, it's about changing their lives and providing opportunities for them to grow into confident individuals. The fact that they're doing this with the help of local coaches and teams is just the icing on the cake 
, I'm sure these girls will learn so much more than just football skills...
It's amazing how Brother Walfrid started the club with a great cause back in 1887, and now they're still making a difference in London 
. Can we see more initiatives like this happening across the UK? 
, especially after learning about its roots in 1887.
. I'm sure they'll learn so much more than just football skills, but valuable life lessons too. All in all, Celtic FC Foundation is doing some incredible work here, and I'm excited to see the impact of "In our DNA"! 
. They're not just relying on one thing, they're thinking creatively to make an impact. And let's be real, their supporters are definitely driving this initiative forward 
. Football has always been about more than just the game itself, it's about community and social responsibility 
. I mean, who doesn't love football? It's an amazing way to bring people together and provide opportunities for those who need them most 
. And it's awesome that they're not just stopping at London – they want to make a difference across the UK and beyond 
! What I love most about this initiative is that it's all about empowering girls, which is seriously needed in today's world 
. Let's give it up for Celtic FC Foundation for being a force for good in their community 
. Their commitment to social responsibility is truly admirable, and it's clear that their supporters are behind them every step of the way 
. By providing access to football training, mentorship, and support, the foundation is helping to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all its members 
it's just another example of people trying to force their way into lives that don't need it. Like, do we really think a few weeks of football training is gonna make a difference? And what's with all the charity events and stuff? It's just another way for rich folks to feel good about themselves while keeping those underprivileged girls in their place. And let's be real, if they're not even getting funding from Celtic FC itself, then it's just a bunch of tokenistic PR stunts. 