INSPIRATIONAL AND ASPIRATIONAL YOUTH WORK IN NEWCASTLE has received national recognition.
YMCA Newcastle is shortlisted in two categories of this year’s annual, national Youth Matters Awards with the winners announced at a presentation evening in London on Friday 4 November hosted by television personality and campaigner for young people’s rights, June Sarpong.
The awards were established in 2009 to recognise outstanding achievement and performance within the 130 local YMCA projects working in more than 660 communities to provide a range of services, facilities and support to more than 600,000 young people across England and Wales.
Shortlisted by judges from the hundreds of nominations submitted in June by individual YMCAs and then decided by a public vote amongst members on the most deserving of consideration for this year’s awards, finalists include YMCA Newcastle for;
– Young Volunteer of the Year – Mark Sillett
– Family Work Project of the Year – SPACE2 City Centre youth project
YMCA Newcastle is based on Welbeck Road in Walker with outreach projects serving young people in both the East and West end communities, and in the city centre.
Chief Executive of the charity Jeff Hurst said: “We are all delighted even to be shortlisted for the awards after the national public vote, and proud to have two finalists in this year’s YMCA Youth Matters awards.
“Mark’s skills, knowledge and enthusiasm at only 18 years old is an inspiration to us all. He joined us two years ago and is always willing to help others and offer advice, and encourage other young people to get involved and contribute to our community-based projects.
“This includes Space 2 in the city centre which opened in 2103 to help secure jobs and training opportunities for young people aged 15-20 years old. Since then around 3000 members from 19 different nationalities have taken part in everything from job clubs and Duke of Edinburgh awards to IT and music workshops, fashion show and sports activities, there is something for everyone in a safe and supportive environment.”
Jeff Hurst added: “We’re all looking forward to representing the city and young people of Newcastle at Friday’s finals, but whatever the result, always proud of what the young people and staff achieve with all our continuing help and support.”
Follow the awards event on social media #YMA16 @YM_Awards
