Youth Work changes lives - here's how it changed mine
My name is Arron. I made my first appearance at Kirkcaldy YMCA aged seven at Active
Kids, a project that gives young people opportunities during the school holidays. There
was a lot of building friendships and relationships with youth work staff.
Growing up, I experienced trauma, like many other young folk. In 2014 I was unfortu-
nate enough to lose my mum and I really struggled with the impact of that and the
grieving process. I struggled with behavioural issues and it was only when I started
attending Active Kids and other projects at the YM that I was able to open up about my
feelings and release the build-up of emotions. This was so beneficial for my mental
health in growing up.
The support and understanding of youth work staff was so important and I went on to
attend youth clubs and projects and wanted to give something back by volunteering. I
have helped run clubs and activities at the YMCA, at the Gallatown Hub and at events. I
have had lots of training and learning opportunities and now attend the Volunteer De-
velopment Group and volunteer at Active Kids, where it all started for me. I have also
qualified as a First Aider with and have started working at Pathhead Primary School.
I have always been grateful for the support and encouragement of youth workers and
other YM staff - when school and other relationships weren't working for me they have
always given me a chance - they challenged me and made me a better volunteer and a
better person.
The point I'm trying to make is that youth work changes lives. It changed mine and gave
me a positive destination and a future.
I still have a lot learn but I have come a long way from that young boy - you could say
the sky's the limit!
So 1 am doing this fundraiser to support Kirkcaldy YMCA and all its youth work pro-
grammes because we need youth work in the community, to change even more lives.