Funding the Future: Why Grassroots Charities Like Sports Fun 4 All Need Your Support
Kieran Connolly is no ordinary charity CEO. Born and raised in South London’s Lewisham, his passion for football began as a teenager coaching kids at 16. Today, he leads Sports Fun 4 All, a charity he founded to provide free weekly football sessions for young people aged 3 to 19 across South London – and he is calling for more support to help the charity continue it’s life-changing work.
What began as a modest effort to host a few sessions each week has blossomed into a dynamic program offering nearly 20 sessions, including a newly launched girls-only group. With around 250–300 young participants weekly, the charity’s impact is profound. Last year alone, Sports Fun 4 All delivered over 850 hours of free coaching, engaged more than 2,600 children and teens, and distributed over 1,500 free school meals as part of the Department of Education’s Holidays Activities and Food (HAF) Programme.
Kieran is quick to point out that the charity’s work extends far beyond football.
“Football is the tool we use to connect with young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds,” he explains. “We’re not here to find the next Premier League star. We’re here to create safe spaces where young people can connect, break barriers, and learn life skills. It’s about building community.”
More Than a Game
At its core, Sports Fun 4 All is a community-driven initiative. From recruiting and training local young people as coaches to collaborating with police youth engagement teams, the charity prioritizes local connections. It’s a service designed by the community, for the community, offering more than just recreational opportunities. It’s a lifeline for young people who might otherwise lack access to safe, positive environments.
However, this crucial work is under threat.
A Call for Greater Support
Despite its successes, Sports Fun 4 All faces significant funding challenges. Kieran is urging local councils, businesses, and supporters to step up and invest in grassroots sports programs. With more funding, the charity could not only sustain its current initiatives but expand its reach to other areas of London and beyond.
“There’s so much more we could do,” Kieran says. “But we need the resources to make it happen. The benefits of these programs extend far beyond the pitch—they reduce crime, improve mental health, and provide opportunities for young people to thrive. It’s a win for everyone.”
Changing Lives: Elias Fazli’s Story
One standout success from the program is Elias Fazli. Originally from Denmark, Elias moved to London at ten with his Afghan parents. Adapting to a new culture and environment was a challenge, but Sports Fun 4 All became a turning point in his life.
At 16, Elias began volunteering with the charity. Though he was shy at first, his confidence grew, and today he is a paid Head Coach for the Downham Football Project. Beyond coaching, Elias has taken on leadership roles, including organizing a trip to Wembley for young participants to experience their first live football match at the Women’s FA Cup Final.
Now in his second year of a Sports Management degree at Westminster University, Elias is thriving and hopes to build a career in coaching.
“Elias embodies what we aim to achieve,” says Kieran. “He’s not just a coach—he’s a mentor, a leader, and a role model for others in his community.”
Why Your Support Matters
Sports Fun 4 All is more than a football charity—it’s a catalyst for change, empowering young people to overcome obstacles, build confidence, and envision brighter futures. But without sufficient funding, the program’s future is uncertain.
This is a call to action for councils, businesses, and individuals to invest in grassroots initiatives like Sports Fun 4 All. Together, we can ensure that Kieran’s vision continues to grow, touching more lives and building stronger, more connected communities.
For more information about Sports Fun 4 All’s work, including how to get involved and donate, visit their Local Giving page here.
