Y.M.C.A. ACTIVITY

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 21980, 26 March 1946, Page 2

Y.M.C.A. ACTIVITY

CENTRE FOR YOUTH ADDITIONAL AMENITIES In order to meet the post-war needs of the younger members in the community, the directors of the Gisborne and East Coast Y.M.C.A. have made considerable improvements and proM gll’jj fwilitiefj for the expansion of the activities. Groups are expected to be on a pre-war strength and many members are back from war service. The physical programme is given every scope and there is a keen band of qualified instructors. Application has been made, and is being considered by the Government, to subsidise the appointment of a permanent physical director to the Y.M.C.A. Some 500 could be accommodated weekly under this arrangement. The social atmosphere has been an important feature on the programme, and members are able to take their friends into the association at certain times. Table tennis and rifle shooting are very popular. A new games room lias been installed in the basement. Educational activity is well catered for this year, and a new library and a meeting room have been made. It is hoped to add further to the selection of books. Discussion groups, debating, and kindred interests are to be fostered. A hobbies workshop has been completed, a good set of tools and benches has been acquired, and capable instructors are in attendance. Picture framing and joinery classes have been in operation already. Christian Principles

With each group, Bible instruction j and Christian character principles are infused at all possible opportunities. There are many members who have passed through the association now instructing in all branches of the work. Some are serving on the directorate. Last season’s report showed one of the most successful years in the history of the association, both from the activity and financial aspects. It indicates that the public of Gisborne and districts is appreciative of the worth of the association, and a continued and increasing interest is hoped for in 1946. Next month the season resumes and the directors are anxious that the parents and general public will inspect the groups, particularly during the opening week. The public’s subscriptions have made possible the increased amenities and is desirable that the efforts be inspected. There is to be a national council of Y.M.C.A.’s conference, and a secretarial convention in Wellington this week. Mr. R. H. March, the association’s general secretary, is representing Gisborne at the latter. Post-war planning, staff training and new fields of work to be opened up, together with a combined Australian and New Zealand movement are subjects on the agenda paper. The Poverty Bay Y.M.C.A is meaning to be up to date with any new sphere of service to bring back to the district.