The ‘More Than A Game’ campaign highlights how Premier League funding and club community programme delivery positively impacts the lives of millions.
To celebrate the campaign and its message, all club charities were asked to nominate a Community Captain who demonstrates a commitment to their club and/or community.
CITC nominated Community Outreach Officer, Jack Byram, as its Community Captain as part of the celebration.
Jack first joined City in the Community as a participant 13 years ago, he then progressed into becoming a part time coach working on Premier League Kicks and Disability.
Since joining the charity, Jack has developed exponentially and gone on to become a key part of the charity’s new mentoring programme, City Ready which is aimed at young people at risk of serious youth violence and criminality.
Commenting on Jack’s experiences and impact on the charity, Michael Geary, Head of City in the Community said:
“Jack has, essentially, spent his whole adult life at CITC and is a great example of how the charity can offer real, tangible pathways for people.
“He is also from the local area and represents the people City in the Community supports. His story connects to Premier League funded programmes, so we are delighted to put him forward for such a deserving nomination.
“Jack’s attitude, commitment and all-round development, both personally and professionally make him a fantastic candidate to be CITC’s Community Champion, with his approach to work always encompassing our core values to be Caring, Innovative, Transformative and Youth-led.
“A key area of focus for growth at City in the Community is its mentoring provision, which has been massively shaped and driven by Jack. This impact was also derived by his own story.
“Thank you to all the fans, who helped us to celebrate Jack at the dedicated More Than A Game fixture against Brentford.”
On being named as City in the Community’s community captain, Jack said: “I’ve always said it, I don’t do the work for recognition. There is a need in Manchester and that’s why I do my job, that is why I have done it for so many years.
“Now, to be recognised by people who I work with, some of the most inspiring people that I work with, for me to have this award I’m kind of like what’s gone on here! But I really do appreciate it, and I suppose it’s only going to make me want to work even harder and keep going.”
You can watch Jack being surprised with his nomination by FG and former player Michael Brown on Matchday Live, before at City’s 1-0 victory at home to Brentford on Tuesday night.
Jack also spoke with City in the Community’s Head of Operations, Lisa McKay about the charity’s newly released annual report, which can be accessed by clicking the link below.
The Premier League’s ‘More Than A Game’ campaign was launched on 12 February, and it will run until 26 February.
City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football.
To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCmancity.
