On Thursday 13th August a commemorative time capsule was installed by the the Chief Executive Officer Tim Sweeting, in a small false wall at the new Community Hub under development on Aylsham Road in Norwich.
The time capsule included a collection of YMCA memorabilia, stories, drawings, observations, poems and testimonies collected from YMCA clients and staff from their different locations across Norfolk.
Tim Sweeting commented,
“YMCA has been in Norfolk for over 165 years and has a long and varied history. We are excited to leave a time capsule that will commemorate this exciting moment in our history and act as an important piece of heritage. It will provide a snapshot of this unique time for future generations to explore.
“Through our ambitious Community Hub we are making a long term commitment to the local community that will enable us to serve and support families and youth in the area for many years to come.”
Also present at the installation were sisters and local residents Amelie and Cora Bailey, who are excited about the new hub and its facilities.
Amelie, 9, said,
“I am looking forward to going to the soft play and café as a treat after school if I have been good.”
Cora, 5, said,
“I am excited because it is right next to my school and Nana can take me there when she picks me up from school.”
The renovations to the building are being conducted by building contractors Cocksedge. Commercial Manager Darren Reeve said,
“It’s great to see a time-capsule being placed here at the new YMCA Hub as we reach a mid-point and now start to close-up areas of the refurbished building.
“Keeping the project on track with new ways of working through the pandemic certainly has been a real team effort, and one which will see the local community, especially young people, benefit from the services that will be on offer at the Hub.
“The project itself has also allowed us to provide opportunities for an apprentice to gain valuable carpentry experience, which aligns with the YMCA’s goals in providing local young people with a focus for education, employment and positive well-being.”
Once renovations are completed in early 2021, the Hub will feature community café Williams’ Kitchen, Explorers Soft Play Centre, and Muddy Puddles – an Ofsted registered nursery with an inclusive and compassionate approach to childcare. The nursery aims to encompass a reduced technology approach to childcare, encouraging outdoor play and exploration. More information and the nursery prospectus are available now on the YMCA Norfolk website: www.ymcanorfolk.org.
YMCA Norfolk have received generous support for the Hub in response to fundraising efforts from trusts, foundations, generous individuals and Norfolk County Council. Public support has also helped to raise over £15,000, 60% of the public appeal target of £25,000.
Members of the public who would like to offer financial support are invited to visit the public appeal page on Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ymcanorfolkcommunityhub