City in the Community

City in the Community is the award-winning charitable arm of Melbourne City Football Club, dedicated to using football as a powerful tool to create positive change in the lives of young people across Melbourne. It focuses on empowering healthier lives by engaging youth through football, especially those facing barriers to participation in sport, education, employment, and community life.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s vision is to empower healthier lives with city youth through football. Its mission is to improve physical health and wellbeing, increase access to education, skills, and employment opportunities, and promote social inclusion and community safety by leveraging the power of football.

Main Objectives

• Improve physical health and wellbeing among young people through active participation in football and related activities.
• Enhance access to education, skills development, and employment pathways to support healthier futures for youth.
• Promote social inclusion and community safety by fostering a sense of belonging and connection through football programs.
• Support young people facing barriers to participation in sport, education, and employment, ensuring equitable opportunities.
• Develop leadership skills among youth through initiatives like the Young Leaders program.

Benefiting Groups

City in the Community primarily benefits young people across Melbourne, with a focus on those from diverse cultural backgrounds and those experiencing social, economic, or educational disadvantages. It also supports young leaders who contribute to community development and peer engagement.

Types of Services and Activities

• Community football programs delivered in schools, local clubs, and correctional centres.
• Leadership development through the Young Leaders program.
• Specialised initiatives such as City Futures, Twinning Project, Powerchair Football, and Healthy Goals.
• Collaborations with government, schools, and community organisations to maximise impact.
• Research and evaluation to continuously improve program effectiveness based on evidence and youth feedback.

Through these efforts, City in the Community creates healthier, safer, and more connected lives for young people, using football as a catalyst for social change.