Raleigh UK has strengthened its long-standing support for YMCA
With the donation of a brand-new e-bike to raise funds for the YMCA Scholarships Programme, an initiative that helps young people access life-changing opportunities. Alongside this, Raleigh has generously donated Strada X bikes, which are now in daily use at several YMCA Children’s Residential Care Homes.
The e-bike, worth £2,399, was raffled to raise money for the scholarship fund, which supports young people facing financial barriers to education, training, or personal development.
The winner, Helen Knight, said she’s looking forward to putting it to good use:
“I think it’s going to be really useful–I’ll be able to nip to the shops or run a few errands around Newark without needing the car. I’m not someone who cycles loads, so having the extra help from the e-bike will make things a bit easier. I can see it becoming part of my everyday routine.”
The raffle was part of YMCA’s broader mission to engage the community and raise vital funds for its youth-focused programmes, including residential care, education, and youth development services.
Chris Harby, Senior Business Development Manager at Raleigh UK, commented:
“We’ve been working with YMCA for a number of years now, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see the difference they make in young people’s lives. We were delighted to donate bikes to their residential care homes and the e-bike for their fundraising raffle. Supporting YMCA Scholarships means helping more young people access the support and opportunities they deserve-and we’re proud to be part of that. At Raleigh, we’re always looking at ways to encourage people to get out of their cars and onto bikes. E-bikes make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of people, and it’s great to see one go to someone who’ll get real everyday use from it.”
In YMCA’s Children’s Residential Care Homes, the Strada X bikes are already being put to good use. From countryside rides to everyday errands, the bikes are helping to create more active, connected experiences for both young people and team members.
Elaine Crane, Deputy Manager at one of YMCA’s care homes, said:
“The bikes have been an amazing addition. The children love them–they’ve brought us a lot of freedom and confidence. And our team have been using them too, whether it’s going out with the young people, or simply cycling to the shops. They’ve made a real, practical difference to everyday life.”
At the YMCA Village in Newark, cycling plays a central role in youth development. The purpose-built Bike Tracks at the Village include two pump tracks, a community trail, and a learn-to-ride area for beginners. YMCA runs bike sessions as part of its Youth Programme, Y-Kids sessions, and the popular Camp Williams during school holidays. As well as open sessions available throughout the week.
Children aged 4–10 can also take part in YMCA’s Learn to Ride and Coached Improver courses, helping to build confidence, coordination, and cycling skills in a fun and supportive setting.
To find out more about cycling sessions and Bike Tracks at YMCA, visit the YMCA website and search Bike Tracks.