The Russell Anderson Foundation (RAF) has named Scotland international defender Scott McKenna as the charity’s first ambassador.
Scott, who played in Saturday’s Hampden clash with Japan, and will be looking to be part of Steve Clarke’s World Cup squad in the forthcoming Finals, explains why he feels so strongly about the organisation.
“I’ve been supporting RAF in the background for a while now, not only because Russell is a good friend but also because I truly believe in the work the Foundation does.
“I’m proud to become an ambassador for RAF, a charity I would strongly urge people to support, as it really does make a difference.”
Echoing Scott’s comments, Russell added. “Having such a high profile international as Scott flying the flag for RAF is a huge boost for us particularly with the spotlight on the country’s footballers this summer.
“Scott has already supported RAF on several occasions in the past and we really look forward to a long and close relationship with him moving forward.”
Formed in 2012, the Russell Anderson Foundation began by delivering free football sessions to children in some of the more socially deprived areas of the city.
These days, what RAF does encompasses so much more than just football.
The whole ethos of the Foundation is to empower children to make good decisions and give them a chance to reach their potential.
RAF works with over 2000 children on a weekly basis across its partner schools in the city and, although a large part of the work remains focused on health and well-being and being physically active, RAF also works with the schools in other areas to improve attainment levels and help with better outcomes for the pupils.
This includes practical cooking lessons, food support, mentoring programmes, workplace visits and employability opportunities to name some of the programmes RAF is currently delivering.