Children and staff at El Paso Armed Services YMCA have a new reason to go outside. On Thursday the YMCA dedicated its new Child Development Center playground, part of a local construction and donation effort led by HB. 

The center’s 24-year-old playground suffered from dated equipment, worn-down landscaping, and rough, rocky sand for the kids to play in. Staff had even stopped using the playground for physical exercise. 

As he stood on the new turf play surface, ASYMCA Executive Director Joe Pritchard commented on the much-improved conditions. “To me it’s nothing short of a miracle that we’re here. We can now say that there’s no more dirty, unhealthy sand in this box. It also won’t be littering the parents’ car seats anymore.” 

Several volunteers including service members laid rock, moved dirt, painted, and turned wrenches during the three-week revitalization effort. Local businesses, including SynLawn, Jobe Materials, Vertex Contractors, United Rentals, El Paso Disposal and Franks’ Supply were invited by HB to donate time, materials, or equipment to the project. The efforts support the “Resilient El Paso” Strategic Plan to build prosperity and sustainability. 

HB’s project team included Matt Lucas, Jesse Duarte, Felipe Luna, and Travis Coker. For the team, it was all about solving an important problem and using their skill set for good. Not only did they organize and lead the project, they were also able to deliver shiny new tricycles and other toys to the playground Thursday morning. 

Regional Vice President Travis Coker thanked the HB team for going the extra mile. “You really embody the mission and the core values of this company. You guys were great.” 

Of course, the real moment of joy came after the adults stopped talking. After the ribbon was cut, ASYMCA kids rushed to their new playground, jumping on new tricycles and swarming the play equipment. The joy of that moment made one thing clear: when people come together in support of families and communities, special things happen. 

ASYMCA of El Paso is geared towards the military members and families of Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range, and Holloman Air Force Base. Their programs are designed to alleviate stress and assist with the unique challenges of military life by ensuring a network of support and making a difference in the lives of military families.