YMCA Fairthorne Group’s 2024 Star Awards: Honouring Outstanding Staff and Volunteer Contributions
On 7th November, the YMCA Fairthorne Group hosted its annual Star Awards at the Solent Hotel in Fareham, an evening brimming with fun, laughter, and celebration of the dedication and impact of its staff and volunteers. Generously sponsored by ConnectUp and WorkL, the event recognised individuals and teams who embody the YMCA’s commitment to empowering young people.
CEO Phillipa Spicer addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of human connection in the YMCA’s mission, which has remained vital for 180 years. She expressed gratitude for the inspiring, daily contributions of staff and volunteers.
After months of voting and judging, the evening saw the announcement of seven award winners:
- YMCA Way: Jo McGrath (YMCA Isle of Wight)
- Rising Star: Ben Cooper (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
- Change Agent: Kirsty Brennan (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
- Outstanding Team: Andover Team (YMCA Andover Nursery)
- Unsung Hero: Clare Hooper (YMCA Weston)
- Community Focused: Library Team (YMCA Weston)
- Outstanding Volunteer: Paul Winsor (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
Congratulations to all the nominees and winners.
We were also able to recognise members of staff with long service award
- 20 Years: Trevor Fitzpatrick (YMCA Whale Island)
- 15 Years: Rachel Harrop-Williams (YMCA Eastleigh)
- 15 Years: Glenn Heda (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
- 10 Years: Lauri Thipthorpe (YMCA Fairthorne Nursery)
- 10 Years: Alan Fernandez (YMCA Southampton, GWH)
- 10 Years: Marjorie Grist (YMCA Newport, IOW)
- 10 Years: Hannah Derham (YMCA Woolston)
- 10 Years: Janet Whiteaway (YMCA Whale Island)
- 10 Years: Rachel Searle (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
- 10 Years: Chelsey Croucher (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
- 10 Years: Esther Viney (YMCA Woolston)
- 10 Years: John Rider (YMCA Fairthorne Manor)
The awards were followed by a lively celebration, as everyone hit the dance floor to enjoy the party as one team, united in their shared commitment to the YMCA’s mission and the lasting impact of their work across the community.
