Business masterminds rally round to refresh YMCA Safe Haven

Small businesses from Sutton Coldfield have thrown their support behind the town 's YMCA - joining forces to give the charity 's resident 's lounge a much-needed refresh.

YMCA Sutton Coldfield - a past chosen charity of the Sutton Coldfield Chamber - offers a safe place to stay for 18 to 30-year-olds who are either sofa surfing or trying to escape a conflict at home.

Business coach and Chamber member Clare Whalley of Meta4 Coaching pulled together a team from her business mastermind group and reached out across LinkedIn and her network to gather supporters - businesses who could donate their time, money or resources to help make the day happen.

Many businesses offered their services. Kate Curry of the Curry Design Studio provided graphic design work, while local artists Liz Orton, Brumhaus and Colour Palette donated art work to help inspire creativity amongst the residents.

Kate Hollingsworth and Rob Whalley provided much needed refreshments.

Past Chamber president Katie Hale spearheaded painting duties, while Fenix Business Solutions and The Hive College also made contributions.

Clare Whalley said: “It was a tiring day that took a village (no pun intended!) - but never underestimate the power of networking.

“It was only because of my connections through networking locally for years, that we were able to make this great day happen. ”

YMCA fundraising manager, Rachel Dutta-Choudhury added: “An amazing team of volunteers refreshed our resident 's lounge! It's a fantastic transformation and everyone's so pleased with the results.

“Thank you to everyone who gave their time, expertise and supplies! The residents couldn't be happier, it feels so much more homely now. ”

Pictured: Clare Whalley and Katie Hale