On the evening of October 23rd, YMCA Cheltenham gathered to celebrate its 168th Annual General Meeting (AGM). Hosted at the YMCA Cheltenham Sports Centre, the event brought together staff, volunteers, supporters, and prominent community leaders for an evening highlighting the organisation’s far-reaching influence and commitment to making a difference.
The evening began with a warm welcome by Head of Health and Wellbeing, Rob Charsley, who set a positive and light-hearted tone for the night. With guests ranging from the Mayor of Cheltenham, Councillor Paul Baker, to trustees from neighbouring YMCAs, the room was filled with a shared sense of purpose and celebration. The AGM showcased the YMCA’s continued mission to serve its community, especially in times of rising need, providing a clear example of YMCA Cheltenham’s motto: “Here for the community, here for you.”
A standout moment of the evening was the presentation of a touching video recording of a choir from Christ Church Primary School. Previously, students of Christ Church participated in the Sleep Easy event earlier in the year, crafting shelters for those sleeping rough to fight homelessness.
The AGM was also a time of deep reflection and spirituality. Reverend Dr. Tim Welsh’s devotion resonated with the audience, drawing a powerful analogy from a classic children’s book ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ to illustrate the importance of perseverance and facing challenges head-on. He praised the YMCA for its unwavering dedication to tackling the harsh realities faced by many in the community, particularly those struggling with homelessness and other life challenges. His words were a poignant reminder of the YMCA’s Christian ethos, which has been central to the organisation’s mission since its founding in 1844.
Mike Horne, the Chair of the Board of Trustees, took the stage to express his gratitude to the staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to achieve the organisation’s goals. Horne’s reflection on the past year painted a picture of resilience and financial stability, with YMCA Cheltenham navigating through economic challenges while continuing to expand its services. The financial overview, presented by Treasurer Michael Jones, demonstrated the careful stewardship of resources and the significant growth of YMCA Cheltenham’s operations.
In a testament to YMCA Cheltenham’s commitment to serving the community, the AGM showcased several of its impactful projects. From the Family Space programme, which supports parents and children through play sessions and holiday activities, to Feed Cheltenham, which has provided essential food support during the cost-of-living crisis, the breadth of the YMCA’s work was clear. The highlight of the presentations was the announcement of a new baby room set to open in 2025, expanding the YMCA’s early years provision and further supporting local families.
One particularly heartwarming moment came when the children of Cherry Blossom Preschool were recognised for their creative contribution to the evening. The children had made beautiful tea light holders out of clay, which they had carefully decorated. These tea light holders were offered as gifts to the attendees, symbolising the light that YMCA Cheltenham shines in the community. Dame Janet Trotter, the YMCA Cheltenham President, spoke movingly about the significance of these gifts, encouraging everyone to take them home as a reminder of the light that each person can contribute to the world. She emphasised how these handmade items represented both the innocence and potential of young lives and how YMCA Cheltenham’s work fosters that potential, allowing people of all ages to thrive.
The event also included a formal key handover, marking the completion of the merger between Cinderford YMCA and Cheltenham YMCA. This merger symbolises not only growth but also the YMCA’s commitment to extending its reach and support across Gloucestershire.
The Mayor of Cheltenham, Councillor Paul Baker’s address was particularly heartfelt. He shared a personal story that illustrated the life-changing impact YMCA services can have, expressing gratitude for the organisation’s role in helping his own family member through a period of homelessness. His words captured the essence of what YMCA Cheltenham is all about – offering not just a roof over someone’s head but the support and skills needed to rebuild lives.
As the night came to a close, YMCA Cheltenham’s leadership shared their vision for the future, emphasising a period of consolidation, learning, and continuing to serve the community with compassion and dedication. The event concluded with a slideshow, showcasing moments from the past year, while guests mingled and networked, reflecting on the evening’s messages of hope, resilience, and community spirit.
A Big Thank You
YMCA Cheltenham extends a heartfelt thank you to all the guests who took the time to join the AGM and celebration evening. Your support is vital, and your presence reflects the strong community spirit that underpins all the YMCA does. A special thank you also goes out to the incredible staff, volunteers, and trustees who continue to drive the organisation forward, fuelled by the good they do and the positive change they bring to the lives of so many. As we look to the future, we remain committed to shining a light in the community, building stronger connections, and supporting those in need with the compassion and care that define the YMCA.