Guildford YMCA’s Life Change Fund provides opportunities to young people who need support to overcome barriers in achieving their full potential.

The fund was launched at the Y Centre in Guildford on 31 January 2005. Two intrepid sailors, the Reverend Jeff Wattley (vicar of Wonersh) and Martin Down (Management Consultant) raised over £20,000 through sponsorship of their involvement in the ARC 2004 Transatlantic Boat Race. A further £6,000 was awarded by Thames Water. Sarah Webb, Olympic Gold Medallist, Athens 2004, received the cheque on behalf of Guildford YMCA.

The fund will be quickly translated into changing the lives of young people. The fund will not be used as a capital reserve from which only interest will be spent.

"We depend on organisations such as the YMCA to enable highly disadvantaged young people to escape a life of poverty of mind, body and spirit and develop the potential they all have."

Mike Woodhouse, Former Chairman, The Prince's Trust (Volunteers)