The YMCA has kicked Christmas off in style, reindeer and all, to launch their "Make a Pledge this Christmas" campaign. We skated over to Newark find out more...
Christmas fun started at YMCA Village on Sunday, 1 December, as more than 200 joined in the fun at YMCA Robin Hood Group's Family Festive Outing. This free community event from the regional charity, held at their Newark Activity Centre, was packed with activities for all ages, bringing people together to celebrate the start of the festive season.
There was even two special visitors from the North Pole. Two of Santa’s reindeer, Mary and Eve (new recruits to the pack, we're informed) were along, which was of course everyone's highlight. Children, and a few of their adults, also got into the festive spirit by personalising their own stockings and decorating Christmas baubles to take home.
Michael Swinscoe, who attended with his partner Sophie and their two boys, Archie and Conley, said: “It was a brilliant event for the whole family. The boys loved seeing the reindeer up close, and we all had a great time making Christmas crafts together. It was a lovely way to kick off Christmas and bring everyone in the community together.”
The Family Festive Outing also served as the launch of the YMCA’s “Make a Pledge this Christmas” appeal with their ask for invaluable gifts to make sure that residents in their care have a gift this Christmas. This initiative encourages individuals to support the YMCA’s mission to help vulnerable young people in our community. Whether by pledging time as a volunteer, offering financial support, or simply spreading the word about the YMCA’s work, the campaign invites everyone to play a role helping to transform young lives.
Becky Dobb, YMCA Community Fundraising Manager, spoke about the importance of the Pledge campaign: “This event was a great way to bring people together and start the festive season. But it’s also a chance to remind everyone about the challenges faced by many young people in our community. Through YMCA Christmas Pledge Campaign, we hope to inspire people to make a pledge, whether it’s time, gift donations, or support. Every pledge, big or small, makes a meaningful difference.”
Pledges made as part of the campaign will be displayed on the YMCA Promise Tree, a symbol of our community’s collective commitment to positive change. The campaign highlights the many ways people can support the YMCA’s mission, from volunteering and Christmas gifts to small financial contributions.
The YMCA’s work in the region extends far beyond Christmas, offering vital support to young people through services such as housing, skills training, and emotional support. The “Make a Pledge this Christmas” campaign focuses on creating lasting opportunities and for young people, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive.
A quick Google tells us that Santa Claus's origins can be traced back to Saint Nicholas, a monk born in Patara, Turkey, between 260 and 280 A.D. making him about 1,750 years old. So whilst they've a way to go yet to match the big man, with such a strong turnout and community support, it's clear that the YMCA - which was set up by local friends in 1871 - will continue to make a difference long after Christmas.
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