CH’s Journey of Resilience and Renewal
“Thank you. Honestly I appreciate you guys a lot. I’ve never had this much help in 10 years, so I highly appreciate everything.”–CH, YMCA resident.
When CH first walked through the doors of YMCA, he was carrying the weight of challenges no young person should have to face. After losing his mum at a young age, he lived with his dad until his father was imprisoned. From there, life became a cycle of instability and hardship. He endured domestic abuse in a relationship, lost his long-standing jo band struggled with anxiety while waiting for mental health support. For years, CH tried to cope alone, often feeling over looked and without the right the safety or support he needed. But CH’s story is not defined by hardship-it is defined by resilience. Arriving at YMCA marked a turning point. For the first time in years, CH had what he had been missing: a safe place to call home and people who believed in him. With stability, support and guidance he was able to look forward and start to see a way forward. He seized new opportunities available to him, enrolling on an engineering course, and demonstrating determination and drive to create a brighter future. With his sights set on further training, he is building skills that will open doors to long-term employment and independence.
At the same time, CH connected with mental health support groups where he found community, understanding and practical strategies to help manage his challenges and reduce the isolation he once felt. Today, CH is thriving. YMCA staff describe him as determined, open-minded and resilient. His journey shows the true impact YMCA Robin Hood can have on young people: creating stability, guidance while opening opportunities to rebuild their lives and rediscover hope. CH’s story reminds us why we do what we do-to stand alongside young people in their toughest moments and help them unlock their full potential
