Around £500 was raised at the free football event at Aldercar School in Langley Mill, with all proceeds going to fund regular training sessions for seven to 19-year-olds.
A charity five-a-side tournament saw teams from project organisers donate £50 to play, with C7 crowned the champions.
Hosted by Amber Valley Housing in partnership with Derbyshire Constabulary’s Langley Mill Safer Neighbourhood Team and funded by Amber Valley Housing’s home improvement contractor Lovell, the event was designed to raise money to help fund the sessions for the next six months.
Visitors enjoyed refreshments including burgers and ice-cream, and there were activities on the sidelines too, with children’s ball skills, training sessions and competitions for all the family.
Organisers hope to raise more money by selling tickets for a charity raffle, with iPods and tickets to Derby County and Alfreton Town football club up for grabs.
The football sessions, which are open to girls and boys, have been running since November last year, and have built a strong following with more than 40 players regularly attending.
Hannah Inglis, neighbourhood officer at Amber Valley Housing, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to continue funding the sessions thanks to the generosity of local people and staff who gave up their free time to support us.
“Giving young people a place where they can meet people and learn new skills is a great way to involve them in the local community.Nurturing community initiatives like this is an important part of our work and is an important part of providing residents with quality affordable homes and places to live.”
Future plans include older children becoming FA qualified, supporting their personal development while building up a bank of volunteers to run the sessions for their peers.
Jennifer Lorimer, from the Langley Mill Safety Partnership, said: ”These sessions play a vital role in helping to occupy young people who would otherwise be at a loose end.With local children coming down every week it gives them the chance to get to know us, helping to break down barriers between the police and young people.”
Ian Jones, building manager at Lovell, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to support such a worthy cause.It’s a project that means so much to the local community, and the money raised is testament to the dedication of these young people in saving something that they enjoy.”
Hannah added: “Seeing young people coming out to raise money for something they really care about was inspiring, and we’d like to thank residents along with Lovell for all their support.”
For more information on the sessions contact Hannah Inglis or Harriet Phillipson, on 01773 573100.
