On this page you will find Testimonials from members of the charity:
Dave Rollins – Youth and Community Worker:
I became involved back in 2015 to support the existing work of the charity. Since then, we have seen some exciting developments and growth. Most significantly, we now offer an after school club at the Misbourne for all students and staff also join and help us build community at the school.
Since opening the after school cafe, we have seen many more young people join our activities in the Prestwood area too.
The volunteers, young people and management group are just amazing. Everyone is working together and without a doubt everyone looks forward to the club sessions and all the various activities we offer.
Having run youth clubs for many years, I can honestly say that the groups are so open and welcome and that anyone who is thinking of trying some new activities, meeting some new friends and linking in with the community should definitely come along and join in!
Dave Rollins
Youth and Community Worker
Mia – Adult volunteer:
Mainly the club gives people the chance to socialise and go somewhere after school, which is great for boosting confidence and building friendships. There are a variety of games for everyone to play including game consoles, card games, pool, ping pong and more! When the weather is good, we even have ramps for skateboarding. There is an activity for everyone! Even the occasional trips such as ice skating or golf bring a new dynamic to the club and allow everyone to bond 🙂
Mia
Volunteer (age 18)
From the Founder – David wrote
“In 1996 I met with a group of young people on Prestwood Common. At the time, I was employed by Buckinghamshire County Council as an area youth worker and, as such, I asked them what they felt was needed in Prestwood. Very quickly the answer came back ‘A Youth Club – somewhere for us to go’ . I replied that they could have their youth club if they helped me canvass for one.”
“Meetings in the village hall confirmed that there was community support for the idea and the PYCAG Project was born. A joint steering group of young people and adults set about raising the necessary funding, finding a site and convincing Council Members of the project’s viability. On July 18th 1997 (my birthday) Prestwood Youth & Community Centre was opened on a site leased to us by the Parish Council on the Common.”
“I’ve been with the Centre ever since its opening: firstly as its first paid youth worker and then, when I was made redundant, as a volunteer youth worker and a Management Committee member. Nearly eighteen years on I’m still a committed member of PYCAG.”
Why, I hear you ask, you don’t even live in Prestwood?
“Beyond ‘ Its my baby!’, it’s not an easy one to answer as it has many elements including enjoyment, satisfaction, service and not wanting to let those people of 1996 down. It’s not just seeing young people enjoying themselves. It’s giving them the opportunity to try something different, something more challenging. I get a kick out of being with people committed to helping youngsters and young people go that extra mile towards fulfilling their potential. ( see what Gyles or Hallum wrote for example) That’s what it’s all about”
David Lyddiatt
Voluntary Youth Worker & PYCAG Chairman [David retired in 2015]
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