YMCA Burton welcomes new trustee

YMCA Burton has appointed Stephen Beech as a new trustee.

Stephen, elected at the AGM on 1 June, joined after graduating from the ‘Get On Board’ project, which is led by One YMCA and YMCA England & Wales and is in its second year of running.

Joining as one of the board's youngest-ever Trustees, Stephen will be mentored by Lynn Chapman, chair of trustees.

Lynn said: “We are delighted when individuals put themselves forward to become Trustees at the Charity. 

“It is a very rewarding role. As well as contributing their skills, knowledge and expertise, it’s also a great place of learning.

“Our Trustees have a very important role to play, and it’s fantastic that Stephen will bring a voice to the Boardroom representing a younger generation.”  

Stephen Beech said: “My Journey began when YMCA Burton chief executive Paul Laffey gave a talk at our church about having a heart for those that come from disadvantaged communities.

“He spoke about how YMCA Burton was recruiting new trustees. I was encouraged by others to find out more.

“After an informal interview with Paul and the chair of trustees, Lynn Chapman, who made me feel very welcome, I knew from that day that it would be the right decision for me.  

“I’ve learned a lot since joining the ‘Get on Board training programme’, and I’ve made a number of young people who are signing up to become Board members for their local YMCA. We will be keeping in touch and supporting one another in our new journey.”

The board of trustees is made up of volunteers who provide governance and strategic oversight of the charity.

As a new trustee, Stephen will bring valuable skills and experience to support the charity in achieving its aims.

Paul Laffey, YMCA Burton CEO, said: “On behalf of our president Ben Robinson and Lynn Chapman, all of our trustees, staff and volunteers, I would like to welcome Stephen Beech to our Board of Trustees.

“Stephen joins us from the Get on Board project, which is a brilliant programme designed to support young people, aged 18-30, to become YMCA Trustees with supportive networks for both the young people participating and those mentoring them.

“We are delighted to have Stephen join us and thankful for his commitment to our organisation and look forward to seeing him thrive in his new position.”

Trustee Amie Blockley will also mentor Stephen.

She said: "It's a privilege to be a part of Stephen's journey to becoming a Trustee of YMCA Burton.

“Lynn Chapman provides expert guidance and attends the Get On Board programme alongside Stephen and I also provide meetings, digital support via WhatsApp, and a friendly face.

“A mentor is simply there to make the process less daunting and to guide people through it.

“It's brilliant seeing Stephen grow in confidence and find his own way forward. I began my YMCA trustee journey in my 20s, I'm now 33 and have two small children, so my experience can hopefully provide some reassurance and inspiration for others to volunteer in this way.

“Being a young trustee provides such crucial perspective and insights into the diverse communities we strive to serve"

Pictured from left to right: Jim Jenkinson from YMCA England and Stephen Beech