Love Stevenage spoke with Dani Toyn, Head of Community Engagement at Stevenage Football Club’s Foundation, to learn more about her role and how the foundation is making a difference in the community. Here’s what she shared about Stevenage Football Club’s community impact.
What does your role as Head of Community Engagement at Stevenage Football Club Foundation involve?
As Head of Community Engagement, I oversee football development, youth engagement, and various community-based programmes. This includes managing the Girls Talent Pathway and serving as General Manager for Stevenage Football Club Women. I’m also part of our Senior Leadership Team and lead a team of full-time and part-time staff, all working to connect Stevenage FC with the community.
How does Stevenage Football Club work to connect with the local community?
The Foundation is the official charity of Stevenage Football Club, and we use the club’s reach to engage everyone in the community. We run programmes for all ages, from toddlers to people in their 90s! There’s something for everyone, from sports and fitness to cooking and social outreach, so we can encourage active and healthy lifestyles across Stevenage.
What are some recent community projects the club has been involved in?
Recently, we’ve been part of the Premier League Primary Stars programme, focusing on Black History Month and fighting racism. With Stevenage Football Club players, we’ve run anti-discrimination workshops in schools, hoping to inspire the next generation to make a positive impact.
How does the club promote inclusivity and diversity in its outreach programmes?
Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do. We aim to understand the needs of our diverse community and tailor our sessions accordingly. We’ve recently appointed a lead on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion to make sure all our programmes are welcoming and accessible, offering our staff the support they need to keep learning and growing.
What role do fans and residents play in supporting the club’s community efforts?
Fans play a big part in supporting our Foundation’s work. By getting involved, sharing what we’re doing, and attending our events, they help us reach even more people and make a bigger impact in the community.
How do you see Stevenage Football Club’s community engagement evolving in the next few years?
We’re seeing growth in our Community, Youth Engagement, and Health and Wellbeing departments, and we expect that to continue. The more we can offer, the better we can meet the needs of Stevenage residents.
Are there upcoming events the community can get involved in?
Definitely! We hold a yearly football tournament with local businesses, plus an annual golf day where Stevenage Football Club players join fans. We’re planning more fundraising events soon, so we hope the community will join in, whether by attending, donating, or simply spreading the word.
We work closely with local councils, public health organisations, police, schools, and other charities. These partnerships, along with support from the English Football League and Premier League, help us create a positive impact for everyone in our community.
Why is it important for a football club to give back to the local area?
Football has a powerful influence that reaches all kinds of people. By giving back, we can support those who support us, sending a message that we care about everyone in our community.
Can you share a success story where the foundation’s community work made a significant impact?
Of course, the story of Duncan, and his life changing involvement with Get Set To Go partnership football from MIND, will really give you some background into what we do and how we can achieve great things!
