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You are invited to our Summer at the Y ShowCase! We are having a showcase day
see all of the work our young people have done over summer with the Y.

Date: 17th August 2023, Location: YMCA Community Hub, sports hall. Time: 5:00-7:00pm. We hope to see you all there!

Information about the event:
The Showcase event will take place on Thursday 17th August from 5:00-7:00pm. The event will consist of an exhibition of all of our art work/photos from our summer project 2023. The event will also consist of a talent show from our Primary school young people. Throughout the year, we have practised dance and completed circus training- we want to show what we have learnt. We will end the event with a small award ceremony to celebrate the young people throughout the summer at the Y.

Who it is for:
Youth Spaces young people & parents/guardians.
Members of the community/those involved in Summer at the Y.
Childcare young people & parents/guardians – especially those with young people in afterschool (to promote what we do in YW & improve transition between CC/YW).

How YMCA Dublin Helped Jake Find His Way

Jake was referred to YMCA Dublin's Alternative Suspension (AS) programme, which is designed to support students facing challenges in traditional school settings. Recognizing his need for personalised support, he transitioned to the PlusOne Youth Mentoring programme, marking a pivotal moment in his journey. With one-on-one guidance from a dedicated mentor, Jake learned to reflect on his choices and explore new possibilities, gradually rebuilding his sense of control. With this support, he re-engaged with education through Youthreach, and discovered interests in mechanics and childcare. “I was lost, but now I have a direction,” he said, reflecting the significant impact this intervention has had on his journey.

The Role of Community-Based Programmes in Mental Health

YMCA Dublin's holistic wraparound approach tailors services to meet each individual’s specific needs, providing young people like Jake with a strong foundation for making informed choices and pursuing brighter futures. This comprehensive model addresses immediate challenges while fostering resilience and self-efficacy—critical components for sustaining long-term mental well-being.

Jake’s journey exemplifies the vital role community-based programmes play in the broader mental health landscape. Initiatives such as Alternative Suspension and PlusOne Mentoring equip youth with essential tools to navigate challenges, stay engaged in education, and build emotional resilience, particularly in underserved areas where poverty and social disconnection heighten mental health risks.

By offering a wide range of services, including youth mentoring, educational initiatives, and family support, YMCA Dublin serves as a crucial resource for addressing the complex challenges faced by at-risk youth. This wraparound model ensures that no issue is treated in isolation, promoting sustainable well-being and development for those in need.

Supporting Programmes That Support Youth

As mental health challenges among adolescents continue to escalate, sustained investment in community-based programmes is essential. YMCA Dublin is actively expanding its reach through the development of new community hubs across Dublin, ensuring that vital support services are accessible to underserved communities.

This World Mental Health Day, we must recognise the importance of a holistic approach that combines community support with access to professional care. Continued investment in early intervention programmes like PlusOne Mentoring and Alternative Suspension is critical to helping young people like Jake overcome challenges, make positive choices, and thrive. The well-being of our youth and the future of our communities depend on it.