Mentoring charity marks anniversary with party
A charity that helps vulnerable children and young people has celebrated its 10th anniversary.
The Young Lives Foundation (YLF) offers mentoring support as well as running activities which allow youngsters to develop skills and interests and to achieve their potential.
The charity, in College Road, Maidstone, helps disadvantaged young people, and asylum seekers, young parents, and children who have been adopted.
Staff held a get-together at The George Inn, in Lower Street, Leeds, to celebrate the charity’s 10th birthday last Wednesday. They were joined by people they have helped over the years.
Recently YLF had another reason to celebrate, when one of its volunteers, Chris Barmby, was made an MBE.
The Tonbridge man has volunteered for the charity for five years as an appropriate adult, a position which involves supporting young people while they are in custody.
Mr Barmby is involved with another key part of YLF’s work – its child’s rights and advocacy scheme. This enables young people to access guidance ahead of important meetings or events.
The charity’s work has also recently been recognised by soap actor Harry Reid, who plays Ben Mitchell in EastEnders. The 25-year-old was introduced to YLF by one of its volunteer mentors, and decided he wanted to support its work.
He said: “Young people’s lives matter, and the Young Lives Foundation look to be a group set to help that fact. I look forward to supporting their movement.”
Visit the team at 71 College Road, Maidstone, or call them on 01622 693459. To donate, go to tinyurl.com/YoungLivesKM