Oxford United in the Community – the official charity of Oxford United FC – has been named as Charity of the Year by the Frilford group of regional business networking group Opendoorz!

It follows a shortlist and nomination process where Opendoorz members can choose one charity to support through the year via monthly guest events.

As Charity of the Year, Oxford United in the Community’s CEO and senior team can network with a broad range of business owners specialising in multiple spaces with professional support provided where necessary.

There will also be an opportunity for the team to deliver a 10-minute showcase to members about the charity and its work to inspire happier, healthier and better-connected communities across Oxfordshire by harnessing the power of football.

Matt Everett, CEO of Oxford United in the Community, said: “We’re really grateful to Opendoorz and its Frilford Group for choosing us as their Charity of the Year.

“The ability football has to positively impact people’s lives – regardless of their ability, background or age – can be so easy to overlook.

“It’s our long-term ambition to provide as many people in Oxfordshire as possible with a positive connection to the football club through our work in schools, community centres, partner clubs and those at risk of being touched by social issues.

“Having the support of the Opendoorz Filford group and its members in 2024 will go a long way towards achieving this and we look forward to engaging with the county’s business owners.”

Launched in 2011 by Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns, Opendoorz hosts regular group meetings and monthly guest events for members who share expertise, knowledge and experiences from their sector.

Caroline O’Connor Associate Director of Opendoorz Frilford added: “Congratulations to Oxford United in the Community for being named our Frilford group’s Charity of the Year.

“Our members are at the heart of Oxfordshire’s business community, we’re pleased to welcome Oxford United in the Community into the group in recognition of their outstanding work and our members look forward to learning more about the team’s work and making a small contribution in the charity’s big operation to prompt positive change via football.”

Further information about Opendoorz is available online via the group’s website www.opendoorz.biz.