| Midsummer Joy is our random act of kindness week. And what a week we had! Our Lighthouse café ran Monday – Thursday with live music sessions from residents and staff. The sun shone and with our gazebo up and bunting fluttering, we added in some classic old-fashioned fete competitions for people to try. Splat the Rat, Guess the Weight of the Cake and Guess the number of marbles in a glass skull were enjoyed and prizes given out.  At our Stage two housing in Newcourt we enjoyed a barbeque with residents. A good many came along and spent time chatting, eating together and getting to know other residents in the houses.  A kayaking trip followed by pizzas was another activity residents joined in with.  On Wednesday we had a big surprise! An ice cream van turned up at St David’s Hill and FREE ice creams were handed out to residents, staff and passers-by.  A big bake from YMCA Exeter staff meant homemade cakes were taken to the Friday Friendship group in Exwick.  and finally, our Jubilee Celebrations at Exwick! Over the last two years, we’ve enjoyed a wonderful growing partnership with Exwick Community Church, together developing a space for families, children and YMCA Exeter residents. Harri Sharp, along with Chris and Debbie Carter are our fabulous staff members supporting young families and doing invaluable work in the community. Over the last year we’ve been developing a forest school, with plenty of hands-on building lessons for residents. From a pizza oven, to a pergola structure and a green roof, the residents have been working to get the place ready for the Jubilee celebrations. And what a celebration we had! It was a great evening of community between all ages, live music from residents, group singalongs, and a free BBQ provided by our Lighthouse Cafe & Food Boost Team!  “Joy is the serious business of heaven” C.S. Lewis – Sue Wilson, Volunteer Coordinator |
