It might have looked like other cycling events on paper, but the recent YMCA Stelvio Challenge in the Swiss and Italian mountains was a mighty one. 22 cyclists took part in the YMCA East Surrey fundraising event, facing heat in excess of 36 degrees, along with stormy weather and even a giant hailstorm at the…
Most of the young people who receive support from YMCA East Surrey’s Housing team have faced difficult challenges in their lives. But that isn’t enough for some. Nine residents, accompanied by three YMCA staff members, will be heading up to Scotland shortly to climb Ben Nevis – all 4,411 ft of it. Wali Mohammed is…
With funding from the National Lottery, YMCA East Surrey organised a trip for ten young people from its Youth Clubs to climb Mount Snowdon in North Wales. “Our aim was to encourage the group to challenge themselves, make friends, grow in resilience and enjoy the beautiful scenery, while engaging in conversations about what it is…
There were sports clubs galore, activities, demonstrations, food tents and even a ‘Quenchinator’ at the YMCA Fun Run and Sports Festival on Bank Holiday Sunday. And the sun came out to welcome the 700 runners who signed up to take part in the 5- and 1-mile races throughout the day. In a triumph of youth…
Six young residents of YMCA East Surrey’s housing scheme have taken on the West Dorset Three Peaks Challenge, successfully tackling a ten-mile trek and climbing three of Dorset’s most prominent landmarks en route. Three nights of free accommodation at Woodsford Castle – the surviving part of a 14th-century castle deep in Hardy country, just outside…
With 125 participants, this year’s YMCA East Surrey Sleep Easy event on Friday 10 March was the biggest and best yet. Lee Fabry, YMCA’s Head of Housing, says: “There were people taking part at four different locations across Reigate and Banstead, with the youngest being ten years old and the oldest, 76. It was an amazing…
It isn’t just serious runners who are welcomed at the annual YMCA East Surrey Fun Run in Reigate’s Priory Park on Sunday 30 April. “The main aim is participation,” says YMCA Chief Executive, Ian Burks, “and we would like as many families as possible to join in on the day, whatever your fitness level!”
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, Ellie Vesey-Thompson, visited the YMCA Beatz Music Project recently to find out in person what the sessions offer to 11 to 18 year olds in the local area. A small group of young people provided an energy-packed display of talent, with examples of how to lay down vocal…
Who says that a goal or a challenge has to be huge to be worthwhile? If your aim is to improve your fitness this year, find a fun group to walk with or get back on your bicycle after a while out of the saddle, there’s a local charity that is waiting to help. YMCA…
YMCA East Surrey has a five-year plan to prioritise the housing needs of young people in the local area. With the UK currently facing a chronic housing shortage, the local charity intends to develop its accommodation offer from 69 beds to at least 100 beds to offer even more homeless people a safe, affordable place…
