Two local men have stepped up in a big way to help the Mexico Area Family YMCA in recent weeks.
Cole Hildebrand and Rylee Rooks, both of Mexico, are supporters of investing in children and the …
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![Rylee Rooks, left, and Cole Hildebrand of Mexico contributed to the Mexico Area Family YMCA by providing a donation of sports equipment. [Submitted]](https://epsilon.creativecirclecdn.com/mexicoledger/original/20220901-135732-8-31%20YMCA%20Left%2C%20Rylee%20Rooks%20%20%20%20%20%20%20Right%2C%20Cole%20Hildebrand%21.jpg)
Two local men have stepped up in a big way to help the Mexico Area Family YMCA in recent weeks.
Cole Hildebrand and Rylee Rooks, both of Mexico, are supporters of investing in children and the importance of after school childcare programs and a variety of youth sports options, according to YMCA CEO Brooke Jameson.
The two men, employees of the American Water Company, designated a nonprofit to be a beneficiary of charitable funds and their choice was the YMCA.
“Hildebrand and Rooks selected the YMCA because of our ability to directly benefit kids in the community,” Jameson said.
The donation included, two dozen soccer balls, 20 basketballs, six youth volleyballs, three adult volleyballs, four new ping-pong paddles and one ball cart, one futsal ball worth approximately $2,000.
“The Mexico Area Family YMCA is a place that welcomes all. No matter a person’s circumstances, background, age, race, economic status, income, etc.; all are welcome to access, benefit from and be a member of our programs.
“Our fitness facilities provide equipment and classes for all fitness levels and abilities. We provide a place to build and foster friendships, reclaim healthy habits, overcome challenges, set new goals, and become the best version of yourself.”
It was a fun time trying to figure out what the YMCA needed and strategizing with the two men on which items would best benefit the facility.
“We have many needs here, so new equipment doesn’t always get the priority when it comes to funding,” Sports Director Caleb Floyd said.
Together with Floyd, Hildebrand and Rooks were able to compile a list of specific equipment needs that would enhance the sports programs.
“Youth sports at the Y teach kids more than just athletic skills. From social and emotional development to creating a lifelong fitness habit, kids who participate in YMCA programs develop self-esteem, discipline, teamwork and leadership skills” Jameson said.
It is acts like these that help the YMCA thrive in Mexico.
“Community support is the reason that the YMCA is thriving,” Jameson said. “We’re so thankful for companies like the American Water Company who recognize our call to action. Investing in our youth is investing in our future. We are growing future leaders at the YMCA, leaders who will continue to make Mexico a wonderful place to live.”
Neither Hildebrand nor Rooks were available for comment as of press time.
