Dancing for a Cause
For many attendees, ceilidh dancing was a brand-new experience and that only added to the fun. Guided by enthusiastic callers and lively music from local Ceilidh band Speed the Plough, guests quickly found themselves swept up in the rhythm, with plenty of laughter along the way.
From the first tune to the final dance, the energy in the room was unmistakable and a reflection of the incredible people who continue to support YMCA Derbyshire and the life-changing work we do across our communities.
Photos taken by the talented Liva Paseka Photography.
Every ticket, every donation, and every step on the dance floor contributed to making a real difference.
Guests also heard from Elizabeth Fothergill CBE DL, Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire and YMCA Derbyshire President, Gillian Sewell, CEO, and Julian Smith, Chair, who spoke about the impact of YMCA Derbyshire and the lives being transformed through the support provided.
The evening also featured videos showcasing the vital work of the YMCA, alongside a powerful first-hand story from a young person whose life has been transformed. Now studying medicine at university, just 12 months ago, he arrived at YMCA Derbyshire’s door, uncertain about what his future might hold.
Thanks to the generosity of everyone involved, the event raised an incredible £20,239 for YMCA Derbyshire’s Changing Lives Fund, helping to support individuals and communities facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and barriers to employment.
Community at Its Best
Events like this highlight what makes Derbyshire such a special community: a community willing to come together, support one another, and have a great time while doing it.
We were delighted to welcome our Headline Sponsor, Cosy Direct, whose support played a key role in making the evening such a success.
Amanda Ellse shared, “We were proud to sponsor and attend such a joyful event. The energy in the room was incredible, and it was inspiring to see the community come together and attempt dancing for this great cause.”
Their words perfectly capture the heart of the evening — a joyful, inclusive event with a powerful purpose.
We were incredibly grateful to Vaillant Group and Handelsbanken for their sponsorship, helping to make the evening possible.
A Room Full of Supporters
The evening was made even more special by the incredible people and organisations who joined us, including:
- Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, YMCA Derbyshire President
- Julian Smith, The Alternative Board (TAB)
- Gillian Sewell
- Cosy Direct
- Tony Walker CBE DL
- Vaillant Group
- Smith Partnership
- Pennine Healthcare
- L.E.A.D IT
- Engineered Learning
- Vibrant Doors
- HUUB
- Seven Restaurant
- Manthorpe Engineering
We were also delighted to be joined by valued friends of YMCA Derbyshire: Ian & Sylvia Morgan, Graham & Anne Penny, Hilary Disney.
More Than Just a Night Out
While the ceilidh was full of fun and celebration, its impact reaches far beyond the dance floor. The funds raised will directly support YMCA Derbyshire’s work to create safe spaces, provide opportunities, and help individuals rebuild their lives.
This is what the Changing Lives Fund is all about: offering hope, stability, and a chance for a better future.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, supported, sponsored, and donated raffle and auction prizes. Without this support, the event would not have been a success.
We’re already looking forward to the next one…
Visit this page to see all our upcoming fundraisers.
