One YMCA to host charity firewalk and gala night as it celebrates 140 years in Watford

A charity in Watford is celebrating more than a century of supporting the local community.

One YMCA is marking its 140th anniversary this year with a host of fundraising events, including a firewalk and gala dinner.

Originally founded in 1886 as Watford and District YMCA, the not-for-profit organisation has grown extensively and is now the largest YMCA in England and Wales. 

Today, it delivers a range of services across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire – helping to tackle the issues faced by local people.

This includes offering supported housing and hostel accommodation to those facing homelessness. 

The charity also helps families and young people through its hubs and youth programmes, as well as providing specialist support for victims of domestic or sexual abuse.

On Wednesday 6 May, One YMCA in partnership with Home-Start Watford & Three Rivers, will host a firewalk at Metropolitan Bushey.

The event will see participants take on the ultimate challenge, as they step outside their comfort zone and walk barefoot across hot embers. Both charities are hoping to sign up 100 people for the firewalk and raise as much money as possible.

Proceeds from the event will be shared equally between the two organisations. All participants will receive training and a full safety briefing on the day.

The firewalk is being sponsored by JHP Electrical Services – with all 14 of their employees set to take on the challenge – alongside staff from Home-Start Watford & Three Rivers, Metropolitan Bushey and One YMCA. 

 

 

 

 

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Speaking recently to Claire Haestier on Vibe Breakfast, Peter Hopkins from One YMCA, who is also taking part in the firewalk, said: “I think it's quite an extraordinary challenge really, walking barefoot across hot embers.

“You know people are doing [the firewalk] because they’re inspired to support the charities, and actually knowing the impact that they’re making in the community.

“The funds raised will support those families services across the Watford communities, as well as other projects we have running in the area at the moment.

“Overall, it’s kind of an event that’s about people [stepping] outside their comfort zone, so they can help someone else step into a safer future.”

Last year, One YMCA provided over 218,000 nights of safe and secure accommodation, as well as helping 1,276 individuals escape rough-sleeping and avoid homelessness. Additionally, more than 71,000 families registered with the charity’s support services. 

In 1978, One YMCA opened Charter House in Watford. The hostel provides supported housing for up to 150 adults and helps residents move towards independent living. It also runs the Orbital Community Hub in Watford – which offers a wide range of services and activities to local people.               

As well as the charity firewalk, One YMCA will also be hosting a gala night at Watford Colosseum on Thursday 25 June – to celebrate its 140th anniversary. On the night attendees will enjoy a three-course dinner, live music and games.

There will also be an auction and raffle – with all proceeds once again going directly towards supporting local services, run by One YMCA. 

 

 

 

 

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Commenting on the upcoming gala celebrations, Peter said: “We’re super excited this year, because we’re going to be holding [the gala] at Watford Colosseum, an iconic venue.

“It’s one of our biggest fundraising events and helps us to [...] deliver more impact in the community.

“So all of the funds will go again back into the work that we’re doing, that housing support, the mental health counselling, the youth work. It’s a great way to enjoy that night out, knowing that you’re actually backing life changing work in the community."

Peter added: “Every pound raised helps us reach more people. That’s what we want to do. We want to help that need in the community. So when we look at last year’s fundraising and impact, we actually grew that by over 33%. 

“If you’re excited about a charity that’s been around for 140 years, supporting the Watford community, we’d love to see you on the night.”

Firewalk 2026 takes place at Metropolitan Bushey, on Wednesday 6 May from 4pm onwards. 

The One YMCA 140 Anniversary Gala Dinner will be held at Watford Colosseum, on Thursday 25 June at 6pm. 

For more information on how to sign up for the charity firewalk, and to purchase tickets for the gala night visit: www.oneymca.org/events