Lincoln City Foundation have won the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce Charity of the Year Award for its efforts to use sport to address significant challenges faced by individuals and communities across the county.
The award, which was presented on Thursday evening, recognises the impact of the Foundation’s work, as well as a long-term commitment to improving health, creating opportunity and building stronger, more connected communities throughout Lincolnshire.
Each year, the Foundation engages with more than 8,000 participants across three areas: health and wellbeing, education and employability, and sport and physical activity. These areas highlight the strong belief shared across the Foundation that sport can be a powerful tool for social change.
Receiving this award comes just five months after the Foundation launched its bold five-year strategy in November, aimed at strengthening current programmes and helping participants experience improved wellbeing, increased confidence and new opportunities.
One example of a current programme is Fighting Fit, the Foundation’s cancer fitness programme, which has seen more than 3,000 engagements. Participants benefit from improved confidence and healthier lifestyles, with many joining at a point of isolation or disengagement.
Martin Hickerton, chief executive of the Foundation, said: “Being shortlisted was an honour in itself - but to win is incredibly special. This recognition means a huge amount to everyone connected to the Foundation.
“It reflects the hard work, passion and commitment our team bring every single day, and the difference they make in people’s lives across our communities.”