History of the mexico area family ymca

1976

It all began with a racquetball club. Dr. Mike Briggs and others got together and built a racquetball court in the old Landmark Building in 1976. From there the group began to talk about the need for recreation for people of all ages in Mexico, especially youth. Nancy Rahmeyer, a former Mexico resident, had a vision that went far beyond what others had in mind. She wanted Mexico to have a YMCA. in September of 1977 Nancy and Mike met with: Dr. Leonard Davis, Warner Williams, John Cline, Dr. Michael Briggs, Brad Brett, Bucky Green, Max Thompson, Alan Atkins, Nancy and Dwight Rahmeyer.

1978

In June, a charter was received for a YMCA. In late 1978, Steve Ira was hired as the first director and the old Highway R-3 School was leased. In the first year there were 345 memberships representing 1,000 people. Programs were held in the Y building and Missouri Military Academy allowed the use of its swimming pool. With a lot of luck, some personal money kicked in by board members, and on-going fundraisers, the YMCA kept going. Later, the YMCA moved to downtown Mexico at 107 E. Monroe Street. It soon became apparent that the organization needed a building of its own. In 1980 the Board of Directors approved plans for a capital drive. In 1981 Charlie Rocker became the Executive Director and William S. Lowe, president and CEO of A.P. Green Industries, Inc, headed the drive. The goal was $850,000.

1982

David Raboin became the Director of the YMCA

1984

The new building opened with Fred Leonard as the Director and Kitty Seigfreid as Chairman of the Board.

1994

Brian Mitchell became the Executive Director.

1996

Sherry Medley became the Executive Director.

2002

The YMCA kicked off a capital campaign to raise $1.75 million to expand and renovate the Y. Staff and volunteers surpassed that goal.

2004

In November, the new Wellness Center with new equipment and a walking track opened for members. Locker rooms were renovated, a new lobby and a new teen/activity room was created. The pool was also renovated, with new walls and roof, new hot tub and sauna.

2013

In May, the new YMCA was opened and included 2 full size basketball courts, 2 new fitness studios, new child watch room, Y Café, walking/running track, a multi-sport activity center, and much more.

2021

In July, Brooke Oliver was hired as the CEO and Executive Director.

Today the YMCA has 1570 membership units, representing over 4011 people. Programs include youth basketball, soccer, flag football, kick ball, whiffle T-ball, martial arts, volleyball, adult basketball, swim team, aerobic classes, yoga, pilates, country fusion, aquatic classes, swimming lessons, and after school child care. Approximately 8-10% of the participants receive scholarships.

History will continue to be made as the future Boards and staff look for ways to meet the needs of the community and maintain the YMCA mission.