Unitas Youth Zone raises over £225,000 after hosting our first-ever Impact Dinner

On Thursday 8 February, Unitas Youth Zone hosted our first-ever fundraising dinner for 155 guests, raising over £225,000 and celebrating the achievements of our youth workers and young people. Titled ‘Uniquely Unitas’, it was an evening none of the guests will ever forget.

Guests enjoyed canapes and a glass of wine in our Rec area and could visit all of the rooms in Unitas, which showcased the array of activities we provide for young people, including gym challenges, music, rock climbing and performing art activities. This was an opportunity for donors to get involved, enjoy activities, and see first-hand the important youth work we provide each year for the 3,500 young people who attend. Guests could also get their photo taken by our team of young people who are interested in multimedia.

The dinner itself was held in our Sports Hall, transformed for the evening into a truly spectacular banqueting suite, and the delicious food was provided by Unitas’ own Catering Coordinator Gail Henry. The dessert was a collaboration between Unitas Young People and The Grove Hotel in Hertfordshire, where the young people had been on an employability trip in the October half-term and designed the dessert with their team of chefs.

After a welcome from Incoming Chairman Stuart Levy, the evening was compered by Fawziya, a Unitas Senior member, who shared her journey from shy 13-year-old to confident, successful 18-year-old who has a career in music and media ahead of her.

The evening also featured two performances by Unitas young people. Darius, a Junior member, sang a Lewis Capaldi song, and you could have heard a pin drop as the guests were blown away by his talent. There was then an upbeat dance performance that had everyone on their feet clapping and cheering.

After an inspiring video showcasing the amazing work of Unitas, Keith Black, Outgoing Chairman, gave the appeal, and we were blown away with the generosity of guests, who had all bought into the vision of Unitas – to provide a safe, fun, welcoming and aspirational space for thousands of young people.

The evening ended with a tribute to Keith as he stepped down after eight years as Chairman. The buzz and energy as guests left was palpable.

Robin Moss, Chief Executive, said “Uniquely Unitas was a very special evening. We gave our young people a platform to showcase their talents, we celebrated the vital work our youth workers in offering young people positive role models and we raised much-needed funds to ensure we can continue providing the services that are so desperately needed”.

You can watch the appeal video here, and if you wish to donate, please go here.

If you would like to visit Unitas to see for yourself what we do, please contact robin.moss@unitasyouthzone.org.