UK
YMCA marks 120 years of help for young in Coventry
Two volunteers who have dedicated 53 years between them to the YMCA helped the charity celebrate its 120th anniversary. Kenneth Holmes, the chairman of the board, has served for 28 years while vice-chairman Peter Amery has been involved for 25 years.
They were both presented with awards at the YMCA office, in Chelmarsh, Daimler Green, Coventry, to celebrate the milestone birthday. Young people supported by the charity, staff and guests gave presentations on some of the work the YMCA has done over the years and the projects it runs. The YMCA supports young people who may be vulnerable or homeless and provides housing, youth centres and activities.
The guests were also shown a DVD about the Coventry and Warwickshire YMCA which was produced by Barry Fitzgerald and his company Cre8iv and features people from the charity and some of the young people who use it.
Accepting his award, Mr Holmes said: "It is not difficult to get caught up in volunteering or encouraged by staff with a team which works so diligently and successfully to deliver high quality work. He also thanked the people, companies and groups in Coventry who have suppor ted the YMCA.
Chief executive Doreen Lennon said: "It's a fantastic achievement and it's been wonderful to look back at how many generations of young people we have helped. We will continue to adapt to the needs of each generation."
Coventry Lord Mayor Andy Matchet said he was delighted to be involved with the celebration and said the DVD should be compulsory viewing for all members of Parliament.
Two members of Kombat Breakers, the dance group which shot to fame after appearing on Britain's Got Talent, also spoke about what the YMCA means to them. Several of the members were living in YMCA accom modation when they started the group.
Colin Green, director for children, learning and young people at the city council, said: "I am delighted to join the celebration for Coventry and Warwickshire YMCA's 120th birthday. The YMCA plays a vital part in providing services for you ng people in the city. They make a huge difference to young people's lives providing excellent accommodation for young people leaving care, positive activities for young people and support for others in their education and training.
"We look forward to working with them in the future to improve the lives of young people in Coventry."
Helen Thomas
31 October 2008
