The next thank you message comes from YMCA MK. Read on to find out how their volunteers make and difference and what they would like to say ‘thank you’ for!
YMCA MK
Our volunteer Youth Mentors make a lasting impact in our community. They’re a positive role model for our young people during some of the most challenging times in their lives—offering guidance, encouragement, and being there to listen.
One young person, Max, was referred to our Youth Mentoring programme after facing a number of challenges in the community. At 17, he’d lost all contact with his young daughter and didn’t expect to find the kind of support we were able to offer. Through our mentoring scheme, Max was matched with Marcel, a dedicated volunteer who offered not only his time but also stepped in as a McKenzie Friend—helping Max navigate the legal system to reconnect with his daughter. Rather than being signposted elsewhere, Max was supported every step of the way. After turning 18, Max was supported to apply for accommodation with YMCA Milton Keynes. He’s now living on campus, no longer sofa surfing, and is being supported to take his next steps with confidence. Living at YMCA MK means Max now has:
- A dedicated key worker
- Access to specialist mental health support through our Mental Wealth service
- Opportunities to build confidence through our health and wellbeing programme
Our volunteers make this possible. We’re so grateful for everything they do.
Thank You!
This Volunteers’ Week, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of our incredible volunteers. Our volunteers play a pivotal role in what we do here at YMCA Milton Keynes, and their skills provide invaluable support to young people in our community. Whether you have volunteered for an hour, a day, or a lifetime, your time makes a huge impact. You’re helping young people build confidence, self-esteem, and brighter futures. Thank you for helping young people reach their full potential.

