On Sunday, 18th May, I'll be lacing up my running shoes to take on the Manchester Half Marathon. But this run isn't just about personal achievement—it's about making a difference in the lives of young people in our community.

I'm raising funds for Manchester Youth Zone (MYZ), a charity based in Harpurhey, North Manchester. This area is ranked as the second most deprived ward in the UK, with nearly half of families living below the poverty line .

Why MYZ Matters:

Safe Haven: MYZ provides a secure and supportive environment for young people aged 8–19 (up to 25 for those with additional needs), offering them a place to go when schools are closed.

Skill Building: Through a range of programs—including sports, arts, mentoring, and employability training—MYZ helps young people develop the skills they need for adulthood .

Community Impact: Every week, nearly 1,000 young people attend MYZ, benefiting from its facilities like a sports hall, climbing wall, music and media suites, and more .

How You Can Help:

Every penny counts. Your donation will directly support MYZ's mission to empower young people, helping them navigate challenges and build brighter futures.