Help us raise £50,000 to continue a Wishaw tradition — giving young people a place to learn, grow, and belong through free, long-term esports and digital skills programmes.

Why this matters

For generations, Wishaw YMCA has been a place where young people learned, grew, and found their place — from dancing and martial arts to boxing and community events. Today, we carry that same spirit forward in new ways, through free, long-term esports and digital skills programmes.

These aren’t one-off events — they’re journeys that build confidence, friendships, and skills for life. Every pound you give helps us keep that legacy alive for the next generation.

Our story

The fire at our historic Main Street YMCA building was devastating to see. It was meant to be our future home — but realistically, we were still two years away from moving in. The fire is believed to be the result of vandalism, which makes it even harder to take.

That building has a proud legacy. For decades, it was a place where young people in Wishaw found their footing—in dance classes, martial arts dojos, and boxing rings. It shaped lives and gave generations a safe space to grow.

We are the same organisation carrying that tradition forward. The activities look different now, but the mission is timeless: to help the next generation thrive. Our Esports Academy is a powerful example of this mission in action. It’s far more than just a game; it’s a pathway to success.

Through the academy, young people build tangible skills and gain real-world experience. They have opportunities to earn nationally recognised qualifications, develop leadership by volunteering to mentor others, and receive dedicated support to move on to positive destinations like college, apprenticeships, or employment.

The fire has not stopped our work—it has ignited our purpose. It highlights the urgent need to create more engaging, positive opportunities for all youth in Wishaw, giving them a reason to turn away from destructive behaviour and towards community. Your support will help us expand these vital programmes, ensuring every young person has the chance to gain qualifications, build experience, and find their purpose. Please help us show that this community invests in its young people, offering them a place to belong and a route to a brighter future.

Why £50,000

This target will give us the resources to grow our programmes and keep them free for every young person who wants to take part. Your donations will help us:

What your support means

Instead of retreating after this tragedy, we’re charging forward with a renewed sense of purpose — to replace aimlessness with purpose, and help every young person see they have a place and a future.

Please donate today and be part of building the future for Wishaw’s young people.