It was a proud moment for Greenhill YMCA and the wider YMCA movement as staff & volunteers had the incredible honour of meeting His Majesty King Charles III as part of a special Community Recognition Event in Newcastle, County Down. The event celebrating the vital impact of local charities, volunteers, and community leaders, was a great opportunity to showcase how intentional youth work, international volunteering, and community impact create opportunity and build belonging for young people from all backgrounds.

His Majesty King Charles III was visiting Newcastle as part of a wider royal tour of Northern Ireland, highlighting a deep commitment to the voluntary and charitable sectors. The focus of the visit was to shine a spotlight on local initiatives, sustainable community projects, and the unsung heroes who work daily to support the wider community.

By engaging directly with grassroots organisations, the King heard firsthand accounts of how local communities are navigating modern challenges and fostering resilience through collaborative community care.

The event took place in the heart of the picturesque seaside town of Newcastle, County Down – a historic moment marking the first time a reigning monarch has visited the town.
The Community Recognition Event gathered a diverse group of local changemakers. In attendance alongside the King were:

• Local Charity Representatives: Leaders and staff from organisations dedicated to youth development, family support, and community development.
• Emergency & Rescue Teams: Volunteers from essential local services, including the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team and the RNLI.
• Social & Cultural Hubs: Representatives from grassroots initiatives like the Newcastle Community Cinema and local foodbanks, all showcasing the rich tapestry of civic support in County Down.

As YMCA Ireland’s National Outdoor and Residential Centre – Greenhill was invited as a vital pillar of the local and national community. For over a century, Greenhill has been an anchor for youth development, cross-community reconciliation, and personal growth across the island of Ireland and beyond.

Greenhill was there to represent the essence of impactful youth work. The team shared insights with His Majesty regarding their core pillars:

• Creating Opportunity: Providing life-changing outdoor education, summer camps, and leadership programmes for young people.
• International Volunteering: Highlighting their unique global network, where international volunteers are trained to deliver local programmes, gaining accredited qualifications while enriching the local community culture.
• Building Belonging: Demonstrating their commitment to welcoming families and youth groups from all backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures to build teamwork, self-esteem, and mutual respect.

The royal recognition extends far beyond the borders of County Down. It serves as a testament to the collective mission of the wider YMCA movement, both across Ireland and globally.

“It was a proud moment for all of us at YMCA to highlight the value of youth work and community impact recognised on such a special occasion. Every day, our staff and volunteers work to create opportunities, build belonging, and support young people from all backgrounds.”

By sharing our work at this event, YMCA Greenhill has reinforced a vital truth shared by our entire movement: that empowering young people, supporting families, and transforming communities is essential to building a more just and inclusive society. This recognition is a testament to our shared mission to help young people flourish in body, mind, and spirit. The Greenhill team remains deeply grateful to the staff, volunteers, and participants who bring these values to life every day, creating a space where everyone truly belongs.