Hello and welcome to the May edition of the YMCA Newcastle newsletter!
We’re excited to share some fantastic developments, including the upcoming opening of our brand-new Youth and Community Centre, heartwarming stories of transformation, highlights from our Easter holiday activities, and the impact made possible thanks to partners like the Bernicia Foundation. We’re also thrilled to introduce a new trustee, and let you know how you can get involved as we head into a vibrant summer season.
Read on to see how we’re continuing to support, inspire, and uplift young people and the wider community across Newcastle.
A New Era: Our Youth Centre Nears Completion
We are thrilled to announce that our brand-new Youth and Community Centre will be opening soon! This much anticipated development will provide a welcoming, safe and dynamic space for young people and community members to thrive.
As we gear up for the launch, we’re calling on our community to help us fully equip the centre. We urgently need:
- Gym & yoga mats
- Boxing gloves
- Music creation & recording equipment
- Gaming consoles & games
- Art & crafting supplies
Can your organisation donate these items or help us raise funds to purchase them?
Get in touch today and be part of shaping a brighter future for young people in Newcastle.
Welcome to Our New Trustee: Geoff Blair
After a distinguished career in the pharmaceutical industry, Geoff Blair joins us with a wealth of experience and a heart for service.
Geoff remains a Trustee Director of Trinity Centre Ltd. in Gosforth, where he helped open a community hub and café that now welcomes 2,500 visitors weekly.
An avid runner and cyclist, Geoff also finds time for his new allotment—and now, YMCA Newcastle.
“The YMCA has a rich history of making a positive difference in young people’s lives. I’m honoured to join the team and contribute to such meaningful work.” – Geoff Blair
From Silence to Strength: Amal’s Journey
When Amal arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker, he was quiet, traumatised, and isolated. Slowly, with the support of YMCA Newcastle staff, he began to open up.
Through English classes, friendships, volunteering, and spiritual reconnection, Amal has blossomed. Now just five months later, he’s preparing for college, dreaming of working in emergency services, and inspiring others with his resilience and warmth.
Amal’s story is a testament to what safety, kindness and opportunity can do.
(*Name changed for privacy.)
Thanks to the Bernicia Foundation: 30 Lives Transformed
With generous funding from the Bernicia Foundation, we delivered a tailored programme helping 30 young people into employment, education or volunteering.
- 13 secured jobs in sectors including retail, hospitality & engineering
- 8 returned to full-time education
- 17 completed short vocational courses
- 10 gained valuable experience through volunteering
Learn more about the Bernicia Foundation
Lilly
“My confidence has improved massively. I’ve started a mechanics course after volunteering at a garage.”
Eli
“I lost my NI number, but YMCA helped me get it back. Now I’m working as a bartender and studying construction.”
Easter Holidays Recap: Fun, Learning & Adventure!
Thanks to Newcastle City Council, our youth work team put on an action-packed Easter programme for local young people.
Week One Highlights:
- Lane 7 Bowling
- Paddleboarding at Cullercoats
- BattleKart Go-Karting
- Blyth Beach Picnic & Swim
Week Two Adventures:
- St James’ Park Stadium Tour
- More Bowling & Pool
- Mini Golf at Mr Mulligans
- Climbing at Newcastle Climbing Centre
“Go-Karting felt like being inside a video game! Climbing at the end was the perfect finish and I made it to the top!” – Sophie
We’re now planning for summer, got ideas or want to volunteer? Let us know!
How You Can Help This Month
- Donate supplies for our new centre
- Volunteer your time or expertise
- Spread the word on social media
- Offer funding or fundraising support
Email us at enquiries@ymcanewcastle.com to get involved.
