MASTERTON Y.M.C.A.

Wairarapa Times-Age, 22 March 1943, Page 2

MASTERTON Y.M.C.A.

UNPRECEDENTED ACTIVITY PAST YEAR'S WORK. THIRTY-EIGHTH ANNUAL REPORT. A period of activity unprecedented in the history of the Masterton Y.M.C.A. is covered by the 38th annual report of the Association. “During the whole of the year under review, all efforts have been concentrated on providing the best service possible to men of the fighting forces while on leave . . . ” states the report. “The-rooms became a popular rendezvous, where men could obtain hot showers, refreshments, reading and writing facilities, games and social entertainment. This necessitated almost continuous buffet service and required the enthusiastic assistance of many helpers. It is felt that excellent work has been done in this connection, and many tributes bear testimony to the way in which the citizens of Masterton have risen nobly to the occasion. Reference is made to the dances, social evenings and Sunday evening teas ’ held during the past year, all of which were most successful and popular. The report refers to what was accomplished in physical training work and in other activities, which were restricted on account of war conditions. Referring to the Ladies’ Auxiliary, the report states: —“The Ladies’ Auxiliary has had a particularly busy year, and must be congratulated on their outstanding achievements. Under the guidance of the president (Mrs H. E. Pither) and the secretary (Mrs C. Pickering) the organising and control of the many activities of the auxiliary have been thoroughly efficient. Every day the ladies have staffed our rooms and also the buffet services . . . They have done a wonderful work in maintaining the interests of the association, and by long hours of cheerful service have d<sne much to help the men of the services. At the rooms the buffet service is still continued daily by ladies of the auxiliary, and much time is spent by them in supplying information, finding temporary homes and endeavouring to meet the requirements of the men of the services. The auxiliary membership has been considerably increased, and in addition a large number of ladies have been co-opted, and all have rendered yeoman service. An appeal is made for a larger measure of support from the community and the district on an annual basis. This would help in stabilising the income and would be of tremendous assistance to the directorate. “The past year,” states the report, “will be remembered by all associated with the Masterton Y.M.C.A. as one of great effort, many calls for assistance, long hours and hard work. It will also be remembered with great satisfaction in that much was accomplished so. cheerfully by so many. Your directors feel that the thanks of the whole community should be expressed to all those helpers who brought such enthusiasm and inspiration to the work of the association during the year. In thanking all these, we ask for a continuation of their support, both financially and in the many other practical forms of service. Our general secretary, Mr C. W. Gaze ,has again proved himself fully alive to the many calls on his time and patience. The many activities have been well attended to, and the special thanks of all members are due to him for his keenness and enthusiasm in the work of the association.” The report is presented on behalf of the directors by the chairman, Mr E. M. Hodder.