... continued from Central Herts YMCA homepage
Most are local. Some are confronting problems with alcohol or drugs; others
recovering from mental illness; or seeking respite from a troubled family
background. Not all have problems but they do share a need
for good neighbours and experienced people on hand to advise and guide through
difficult times.
Our IT suite, developed in partnership with Oaklands College and the local authority, is open to people living nearby, other community groups as well as our own staff and residents, wanting to improve their computer skills. A full time member of staff is employed to continually develop the work of the IT suite and opportunities on offer.
Our annual turnover is £2.5 million and growing. We employ approximately 80 staff. Residents in our hostels pay a realistic rent. Fees for the nursery reflect the ability of working parents to pay, rather than private sector rates driven by profit.
We comply with the standards laid down by our national organisation, and welcome their expertise, but we are a self-supporting unit, rooted in the community. We pay our own way from the income our activities generate.
We recognise that the people who live in our hostels need and deserve high quality staff assistance. To help provide it we have been awarded £630,000 a year from the government’s Supporting People programme. We aim to provide the best service possible to our residents and respect the fact that the YMCA is their home and that we are all part of that community.
As our name suggests, we are guided by Christian principles. They include recognising that everyone matters and is valued; encouraging them to fulfil their potential in a loving and caring community; and, above all, providing hope. Central Herts YMCA is a place where people matter.
But we are open to all. Whatever your faith, or if or have none, welcome to Central Herts YMCA.