YMCA Fairthorne Group, a charity dedicated to supporting children, young people, and families across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, recently hosted its inaugural YMCA Fairthorne Group Star Awards.
The awards were held to celebrate the accomplishments of teams, individuals and volunteers who are at the heart of all that YMCA do for our beneficiaries.
Flying the flag for the Island
This year, two residents from the Isle of Wight were recognised.
Jo McGrath received the prestigious ‘YMCA Way Award’, which honours individuals who embody the values of YMCA Fairthorne Group in all aspects of their work.
Additionally, Marjorie Grist was honoured with a ‘Ten Years Long Service Award’ for her dedicated work as an Early Years Practitioner at YMCA Newport Nursery.
Vital services across Newport and Shanklin
YMCA Fairthorne Group provides vital services across Newport and Shanklin, including ‘The Lodge’ at Shanklin, a residential facility supporting young mothers aged 16-25 at risk of homelessness, alongside their infants. The Lodge offers a safe haven for those who need it.
Jo McGrath, Mother and Baby Support Manager, leads the care at The Lodge with support from a part-time Advanced Early Years Practitioner. Together, they provide tailored services, including weekly support plans, employment and skills training, and guidance to help young mothers build their confidence and independence.
Spicer: She inspires confidence and self-belief
CEO Phillipa Spicer praised Jo’s contributions, stating,
“Jo engages with young mums with compassion, ensuring they feel supported in parenthood.
“She inspires confidence and self-belief, handling sensitive issues with care, and maintaining the YMCA’s standards.
“Jo’s balanced approach of being supportive and positive fosters a long-lasting impact on the lives of young mums and their children.”
A shining example
Jo has been living on the Isle of Wight with her family for almost 25 years and working in the Island’s education system for over ten years. She has been a shining example for our YMCA’s Mother and Baby facility for over two years.
YMCA Fairthorne Group is proud to offer extensive support to residents across the Isle of Wight, as well as volunteer opportunities for those looking to give back to their local community.
News shared by Ross on behalf of YMCA Fairthorne Group. Ed
