Watch Michael’s Full Video Above
In 1989, Michael Hallissey found himself in an unexpected and difficult situation. At just 21 years old, having recently arrived in Leicester from Essex, Michael’s life took a sharp turn. He faced a combination of personal setbacks and growing challenges, ultimately leading him to a place of vulnerability—living in a night shelter.
After some time, Michael realised he needed to change his life. He took a leap of faith and turned to the YMCA for support. The transition wasn’t easy; he was young, struggling, and unsure about his future. But the YMCA gave him the stability he desperately needed, offering him a place to live and a sense of belonging that had been missing from his life.
At the YMCA, Michael found more than just shelter; he found a community. He spent six months there, during which he began to rebuild his life. He became involved in activities, helped set up social events like video clubs and football matches, and even became a source of support for others who were struggling. The YMCA gave him the foundation to find his feet, gain independence, and ultimately, to begin to look ahead.
One of the key turning points in Michael’s journey was his involvement in the YMCA’s Euro Cross event. It was an opportunity for him to connect with people from around the world, share experiences, and see the wider world beyond his own struggles. This experience had a lasting impact, shifting his perspective and inspiring him to pursue a future in which he could give back to his community.
As time passed, Michael started to build a career. He worked in various roles, including in bars and nightclubs, but it wasn’t until he found his calling as an Employment Support Specialist with the NHS that he truly discovered his passion for helping others. He worked closely with people facing mental health challenges, offering the same kind of support he had once received at the YMCA.
Michael’s story comes full circle: he now supports individuals who are facing similar difficulties to those he once experienced. Through his role at the NHS, he has been able to create opportunities for people, offering a hand up when they need it most.
Looking back, Michael credits the YMCA with giving him the stability, support, and sense of belonging that allowed him to grow into the person he is today. It’s a story of resilience, transformation, and the power of community—proving that sometimes, a helping hand can change the trajectory of a life.
And as Michael continues to give back, his story remains a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of the YMCA and the importance of providing support to those in need.
Read the FULL Impact Report here: https://bit.ly/417KIQ7
Tia Carter, a local Leicestershire resident, won the title of Miss Leicestershire 2020 back in April. This year’s contestants were all invited to raise money for The Y as part of the Miss Leicestershire contest. Tia raised £220 for us which is an incredible achievement given the circumstances faced by the contestants. Tia was the first Miss England finalist to be crowned at home in Leicester by her older sister during lockdown. Along with her sister Sapphire, they became the only sisters in the history of Miss Leicestershire to both hold the title (Sapphire was Miss Leicestershire in 2017). Tia’s sponsor for this year is Richard Clarke.
Tia has chosen The Y and Warning Zone, both important charities, to support during her time as Miss Leicestershire. Tia will be launching a raffle to raise funds for both causes on the 31st of July and we’ll share details of this as soon as we can. Taking part in the raffle is an easy way you can support The Y and Warning Zone. From September onwards, Tia will be preparing for the Miss England Finals currently being planned as a socially distanced live event in October. We wish Tia all the very best of luck with the raffle and her preparations for the finals.
MOD Pizza is coming to Leicester THIS DECEMBER. The new restaurant will open in the former home of Chimichanga – the Tex-Mex restaurant which closed in August, as part of the restructuring plan announced by Prezzo Limited earlier this year.