Brooke’s Story
Brooke first attended our Social Acknowledgement Group at the age of 8. Brooke’s mum felt that a youth club may help Brooke to overcome her shyness and low confidence.
After attending for a few weeks, Brooke soon found her feet. She met new friends, worked well with staff, and got involved with activities. The group over the years went on residential trips and days out where Brooke was pushed to her limits through caving, canoeing, climbing etc. which Brooke gave her all to. Brooke would then come up with ideas each week for group games and quizzes, which amazed staff, who then invited her to become a Young Leader. After a year of accomplishing this, Brooke now volunteers at many youth groups, supporting ‘mini-Brooke’s’, helping other young people come out of their shell and reach their full potential! Brooke says that without YMCA Essex, she would be a lost soul!
In a recent update to what she’s been up to, Brooke said, “I am now 18 years old and still volunteer across the youth clubs and have also been part of the successful summer camp team as a paid member of staff helping vulnerable and essential workers children. I have just completed my studies at Chelmsford College gaining a Level 3 Diploma in Travel & Tourism. I feel I have become an invaluable member of staff to YMCA Essex and look forward to continuing my good work within the organisation. Eventually I will fly the nest to become a Holiday Rep and use my experience and wealth of knowledge from YMCA Essex to help empower and remain children-centred with the children I meet along my journey in life”.
September 2021
