[caption id=“attachment_5606” align=“alignright” width=“1000”] National Youth Volunteer Nominee[/caption] It has been another great day for our fantastic volunteers as we have had another one shortlisted for the StreetGames National Youth Volunteer Awards. 17 year old Steven Mapstone joined us last July from the Youth Offending Team. The award Steven has been shortlisted for is the ​“Most Dedicated to Personal Development Award” this is due the focus and willingness to overcome all barriers he faces. Steven was fully compliant with YOT and was released 6 months early from their supervision, which is almost unheard of. Steven has been turned away by several educational providers who simply judge him by paper and I was thrilled when Catch 22 offered him a chance to get the education he deserves. Steven also moved himself into Foster Care to start a fresh and he changed his peer group. Unfortunately Steven still faces threats from others simply due to his family name, but keeps away from trouble. Steven has also worked hard to support his younger siblings also under YOT, to stop them making the mistakes he did. He is a great mentor and a role model to them and so many others. Life is still complicated for Steven but he sees a light at the end of the tunnel. He has now been employed by Swindon Town Football In The Community and by us. For those who have believed in him, in particular Karen Sercombe from YOT, Tracey Falkner from Home Tutoring and staff at Catch 22, Stfc and StreetGames Swindon staff- I know you will have your fingers crossed for Steven on this one! Attached is a picture of Steven with his Local Heroes Award, which every nominee is given. This was done today at a session Steven volunteers at.