Spotlight for International Women’s Month – Janet & Genie at The Moorlands

This International Women’s Month, HEY Smile Foundation is celebrating the inspiring mother-and-daughter duo of Janet O’Toole and Genie Young from The Moorlands Community Charity in Old Goole.

Community Hub

The Moorlands Community Charity supports the Old Goole community through a vibrant Youth and Community Centre. Co-produced with local people, their work includes youth-led programmes, a Pantry Club tackling food deprivation, a Lunch Club reducing loneliness, and an Asylum Support Hub promoting inclusion and diversity. Volunteers and community voices are at the heart of everything they do.

Janet O’Toole – Head of Operations

Growing up in the late 1960s, Janet learned early how to challenge barriers placed on women. Her passion for supporting young people has driven her career for decades, and at 53 she achieved a lifelong goal of attending university, earning a BA (Hons) in Youth and Community. She’s now studying for a master’s in Social Justice.

For Janet, the most rewarding part of her role is watching young people grow in confidence and leadership, going from standing on the sidelines to running their own youth initiatives. Her work is guided by her principle of EMPOWER: Education, Methodologies, Participation, Opportunities, Welcome, and Equality and Respect for all.

“Be strong, be determined, and believe that you can do all you want to do. Don’t be defined by social constructions – be you. Loud and proud.”

Genie Young – Development Manager

Genie’s path into community leadership wasn’t straightforward. A passionate dancer growing up, she faced challenges navigating dance college as a neurodiverse student. When that path changed, she initially felt lost – until she joined The Moorlands.

Starting with a few hours organising the office, Genie quickly discovered her neurodiverse thinking was a strength for problem-solving and innovation. At just 23, she became Development Manager and now leads projects that strengthen services and bring creative solutions to community challenges. She’s also reconnected with dance and now teaches others.

“No matter who we are we all face challenges, but these are the things that make us who we are. I’m no longer sad that my path didn’t go as planned; those obstacles made me the person I am today. Never let a challenge hold you back – remember each of us have something special and unique to offer.”

Intergenerational Impact

Together, Janet and Genie show the power of intergenerational leadership, combining experience and fresh ideas to create real change in their community.

Share this story and celebrate the women shaping our communities this International Women’s Month.