Today’s fixture against Crystal Palace goes beyond the pitch, as the selected fixture for the Moore Family Foundation (MFF).
In partnership with the West Ham Foundation, the programme has been instrumental in shaping young lives through innovative programmes designed to provide academic, mentoring, and life-skills support to those outside mainstream education.
Empowering Young People Through Education and Mentorship
The Moore Family Foundation programme offers a lifeline to young people who face challenges in traditional educational settings. By combining academic and life-skills development with football-themed activities, the initiative delivers a comprehensive experience that equips participants with the tools to succeed in life.
One of the programme’s most impactful features is its focus on nationally recognised qualifications, including:
- Level 1 and Level 2 Sports Leadership
- FA PlayMaker Award
- Level 1 FA Talent Identification
- Level 1 Business Administration
These qualifications not only enhance participants’ employability but also help to build their confidence. In addition, each participant is assigned a mentor from the West Ham United Foundation who create a personalised development plan to ensure tailored support throughout the programme's duration.
To further enrich the experience, participants are also treated to termly “enrichment days,” which include activities such as stadium tours and external excursions to help inspire and motivate them.
Inspiration from the inaugural Gala Dinner
A significant milestone for the Moore Family Foundation came at The West Ham Foundation’s recent inaugural Gala Dinner, during an event that celebrated the achievements of young people while raising awareness of the Foundation’s vital work.
Among the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the Rising Star Award to Thalia Lewis. The award was presented by actor Ray Winstone and Moore Family Foundation founder Roberta Moore, daughter of West Ham legend Bobby Moore, whose enduring legacy inspires the programme.
Thalia’s story exemplifies the programme’s impact. Overcoming the risk of disengagement from mainstream education, she thrived under the mentorship and football-themed activities provided by the foundation. Thalia completed the Moore Family Foundation programme, gained her Sports Leadership qualifications, and became a powerful advocate for others. Her journey didn’t stop there, she has since supported her peers through the Care Leaver programme, embodying the Foundation’s mission to inspire and empower.
Speaking at the Foundation Gala Dinner MFF Founder Roberta Moore said: “We’ve reached out to so many young people over the years and helped transform their lives.
“We’ve reached out to so many young people over the years and helped transform their lives. It's been lovely to see Thalia receive the award tonight; she’s such an inspirational young woman who just embodies everything that I’d hoped the foundation would be and how it would help young people.”
Key Highlights and Achievements
In the year ahead the MFF will work with three alternative provisions to provide bespoke individualised support for almost 50 young people, and looking back on the past year the programme has celebrated several significant milestones, showcasing the breadth and depth of its impact:
- Celebrating Excellence: Recent programme completer, Thalia, presented with the Female Rising Star Award, highlighting the life-changing potential of the programme.
- Expanding Reach: Partnerships with two new schools have extended the programme’s influence to more young people in need.
- Skills Development: 25 participants enrolled in Level 1 and Level 2 Sports Leadership qualifications, while four completed their FA Playmaker course, and three achieved their Level 1 Business Administration qualification.
- Enrichment Opportunities: Six enrichment days were delivered, providing participants with unforgettable experiences that broaden their horizons and inspire their ambitions.
Sport as a Tool for Transformation
The Moore Family Foundation programme demonstrates the power of sport to break down barriers and provide young people with the skills and confidence they need to succeed. By blending physical activities with classroom-based learning, the programme instils essential values such as teamwork, leadership, resilience, and responsibility.
This approach uses the appeal of football, creating a platform that not only engages participants but also fosters their personal growth. Mentors play a vital role in guiding young people through challenges, while the qualifications they earn give them a platform to build on as they prepare for life beyond the programme.
A Legacy of Opportunity and Hope
As the Moore Family Foundation continues to grow, it remains a beacon of hope for young people who face barriers to education and employment. The Foundation’s commitment to providing mentorship, qualifications, and life-enriching experiences ensures that every participant has the opportunity to achieve their potential.
The story of Thalia is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are given the right support and opportunities. From disengagement to becoming a role model, Thalia’s journey is a testament to the life-changing work of the Moore Family Foundation.
For more information on how you can support the Moore Family Foundation, visit the West Ham United website or join us on match day to celebrate the legacy of Bobby Moore and the Foundation’s vital work.