What’s the problem we’re solving? When a young person first arrives to live at YMCA, they are often struggling with isolation, money worries and low self-esteem – major barriers to engaging in creative or physical activities. Yet these are vital pathways for boosting wellbeing, forging friendships and building skills. Now we can change the story.
Through the power of sport, arts and adventure, our 2025 Big Give, the Activate project will give young people overcoming homelessness the chance to discover what really lights them up.
With our safe, supported housing as a foundation, our young people can have a fresh start; exploring and connecting to a host of vibrant local opportunities. As they uncover their strengths and skills they will also be better equipped to build healthy, happy and independent lives.
When young people are given access, encouragement and a community that believes in them – sparks fly.
The Big Give is the UK’s largest match funding platform and each year hundreds of charities take part in the Christmas Challenge.
For 2025 our total project target is £30,000.
In August we are seeking to secure £7,500 in pledges from local businesses and supporters, which gives us the chance of being awarded a further £7,500 from a Big Give Champion Funder, to create a matching pot of £15,000.
During The Christmas Campaign week (2nd – 9th Dec 2025) donations were doubled by the matching pot until we reached the target and then beat it!
The pledge funders then pay their match donations in January 2026.
This project is about the power of sports, creativity and adventure to transform lives. It’s about giving young people the chance to try something new, feel safe doing it, and realise they’re capable of more. It’s about opening doors, unlocking potential, and building brighter futures – one opportunity at a time.
These activities are shown to reduce anxiety and depression, whilst boosting resilience, wellbeing and self-esteem. With our safe, supported housing as a foundation, our young people can have a fresh start; exploring and connecting to a host of vibrant local opportunities. As they uncover their strengths and skills they will also be better equipped to build healthy, happy and independent lives.
Whether it’s picking up a paintbrush, climbing a rock wall, joining a local dance class or stepping into paid work at our historic Y Theatre – every phase of this programme is designed to support young people to belong, contribute and thrive.
Our ‘Roots to Resilience’ project in 2024 raised close to £25,000 to create a garden for young people at our Aylestone site.
Within 6 weeks of the funds being raised we started work, which is due for completion in October 2025.
You can see how the project has come together here.
Thanks to all our incredible supporters who helped make this possible with particular mention of The Big Give, The Reed Foundation, Appello, Parallel Office and Document Solutions, Rock Kitchen Harris, PA Housing, Pilon, Synergize, Aaron Services, Dunelm, WBR and Bradbury Flooring.
Contact Us: [email protected]
