I am the CEO at YMCA East Surrey and we are so lucky to have a team of volunteers and supporters who raise money for our charitable work every year.

Their hard work and committment has inspired me to take on the Stelvio Challenge and attempt to raise £1,000 towards the Life Change Fund set up to give local kids the support they need to 'belong, contribute and thrive' in the community.

20 YMCA cyclists of varying ability will take on the steepest mountains in Northern Italy, covering 365 miles and 40,000 ft of climbing, to reach the summit of the mighty Stelvio. 

This year the YMCA is hoping to raise enough money to purchase an electric youth bus that can be used by our qualified youth workers to reach parts of the county where there is little other support or provision for young people. 

This new vehicle will be equipped with the latest IT plus a range of sports equipment and cooking facilities so that we can create a mobile youth club experience for those who live in more deprived or isolated areas of Surrey.  

The bus will be manned by qualified youth workers who will set up fun activities and offer advice and support to young people across East Surrey, with a focus on those who may be struggling with their mental health, or who are at risk of exploitation.

This will help young people to succeed and reach their potential.

Any help you can offer will really make a difference and would be most appreciated! 

Read more about how the YMCA's charitable work has helped local people here 

https://www.ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk/about-us/real-stories/

See some pics of the event

 here https://photos.app.goo.gl/AJtkEicmHBRxc7g88

Ian