Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

For me, supporting YMCA Newcastle isn't just another charity commitment – it's deeply personal.

I've had the privilege of being involved with the organisation for many years, first as Treasurer and now as Chair. During that time, I've seen first-hand the extraordinary impact that YMCA has on young people's lives.

I know how important those opportunities can be because I benefitted from them myself. As a young person, I was fortunate to take part in programmes like the Youth Rotary Leadership Award, World Youth Day, and to serve as the student representative on the South Tyneside College Board. Those experiences gave me confidence, broadened my horizons and helped shape the person I became.

Every young person deserves those kinds of opportunities.

But the reality is that being young today is harder than ever. Many face challenges around mental health, loneliness, housing, employment and simply finding a place where they feel they belong.

That's why YMCA's work matters so much.

Every day, YMCA creates opportunities for young people to belong, contribute and thrive. It provides safe spaces, trusted adults, support for wellbeing, opportunities to learn new skills and the belief that every young person can achieve their full potential.

I have seen young people arrive with little confidence, little hope and few opportunities – and leave with ambition, resilience and a brighter future.

Your generosity can help make that happen for even more young people, because sometimes all it takes is one programme, one opportunity, one person believing in you, to change the direction of a life.

Thank you for supporting YMCA Newcastle and, most importantly, the young people whose futures depend on organisations like it.