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Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2256, 30 July 1908, Page 2

FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE. The movement -which is now being pus-hod forward by Mr. H. N. Holmes, secretary of the Wellington branch of the Y.M.C.A., is one that can be cordially commended to tho sympathetic attention of the Gisborne public. This old-established organisation has made remark-able strides in recent years all over the -world, chiefly as a result of the broadening of the (principles .upon which it is -conducted. The Association ha® -always been a power for great good, but for -a long time the -impression existed that it was in some way a close corporation for those -possessing certain religious belief, and this fact undoubtedly restricted its sphere of influence. (Since the fact has become more widely .recognised that the Association is carrying on a purely social work, having for its object the betterment- of the younger members of the community quite irrespective of creed or opinion, its progress has become very rapid. Wherever this body has a branch a determined effort ns made to supply attractions which, though entirely healthy in itonc and character, will prove sufficient to draw within its influence the young -men of the district. It recognises the principle that one of the strongest traits.' in human nature is the demand for social intercourse, and that if a. young man cannot satisfy this instinct under decent conditions lie will do so under circumstances that will have a detrimental effect upon his character. As be -leaves the ties and restrictions of homo life, either through a Change of locality or from inclination, he yearns for companionship; for some place where the exuberance of bis own youthful spirits will be reciprocated in those he fraternises with. Where

-ho satisfies this desire he makes his friendships; and it is in this way that his (life habits are formed, whether at mi hotel bar, in a club room, or at a billiard euloon. This is probably the most critical period of a young m in’s career, (for it is -then that lie 'is most susceptible to good or evil influence. It is just hero that tlio Y.M.C.A. comes forward with an invitation to make its rooms a social mooting -place for all who wish to enjoy -themselves in the -freest poss-iiblo mnnnc-i' and under surroundings-that will appeal strongly to tho majority of our young men. No opportunity is missed of raising the moral calibre of those who come within its influence, but the authorities make i-t quite clear that their institution 'has an open door for 'all who desire to meet -in social intercourse under reasonable conditions. -Gisborne needs such nil institution more than many other towns of the Dominion, and for this reason wo wish Mr. Holmes and his mission all -possible success.