YMCA Humber Recognition Awards 2025: A Night of Celebration

The YMCA Humber Recognition Awards 2025 brought together staff, residents, young people, volunteers, trustees and friends of the organisation for an evening full of celebration and community spirit.

Guests began the night with a beautiful two course meal in the Bradbury Café, a chance to relax, catch up and enjoy time together before the awards began. It set a warm and welcoming tone for what was to come.

After the meal, everyone made their way to the Weston Hall for the ceremony. We kicked things off with a video looking back on the past year. It highlighted the amazing progress made across our youth sessions, supported housing, community groups and new developments. From big milestones to small but meaningful moments, it reminded us just how much has happened across our services.

Our CEO, Kate Conway, welcomed everyone and shared reflections on the year. She spoke about the energy across our teams, the commitment shown by staff and volunteers and the resilience of the people who use our services. It set the perfect tone for the evening.

The awards themselves were a real highlight. We celebrated young people who have stepped up, grown in confidence through our youth provision. We recognised residents who have worked hard on their wellbeing, independence and personal goals. We also thanked staff and volunteers who consistently go above and beyond, helping create welcoming spaces where people feel supported and valued.
 

Throughout the night, the room was full of smiles, applause and genuine pride. It was a wonderful chance to bring everyone together and celebrate the work, progress and people that make YMCA Humber what it is.

One of the most meaningful moments of the night came when we recognised the Chair of our Board of Trustees, Stephen Gallaher, and his wife, Janet. After 12 years of service, Stephen is stepping down from his role at the end of the year, and it was important to acknowledge the incredible impact he has had on YMCA Humber. Stephen has given not just his time, but his wisdom, compassion and heart to this organisation. He was a driving force behind the vision, planning and delivery of our new building at 21 Freeman Street, but he never lost sight of what matters most, which is the work that happens inside it and at all our facilities. He has consistently challenged and supported the leadership team to make sure everything we do helps people belong, contribute and thrive.

Our CEO, Kate, also shared a personal reflection, saying she could not have asked for a better role model during her six years with YMCA Humber. Steve’s clarity, integrity and generosity of spirit have guided our organisation throughout his tenure. As he steps back to enjoy more well-deserved time with his family and his wife, it was a privilege to thank them both for their love and support.

As the evening came to an end, one thing was clear. YMCA Humber is at its best when our community comes together. The awards were a reminder of the real impact people can make when they support one another.

Thank you to everyone who attended and to everyone who continues to make YMCA Humber a place where people can belong, contribute and thrive.