Roquette America is making a sizeable donation to the Hoerner YMCA in Keokuk. The company announced that it will contribute $500,000 over the next four years, starting with an initial donation of $200,000.
“All of us at the YMCA are very grateful to have the continued support of Roquette,” said YMCA CEO Mark Smidt. “The company’s very generous contributions to our restoration shows the caring spirit they have for this community and their willingness to be a good neighbor to all in Keokuk.”
The renovations at the YMCA started when the facility landed a state grant to repair its roof and to upgrade its fire alarm system. Private donations have helped fund the resurfacing of the gymnasium and the expansion of the teen program area.
Smidt told Tri States Public Radio in June that a top priority for the facility is to upgrade the locker rooms and showers. He said the YMCA also wants to add more exercise classes or nutrition programs to attract more users.
“One of the Roquette company values is ‘well-being,’” said Roquette America CEO Eric Loges in a statement. “Doing what we can to improve the daily lives of our employees, our neighbors and our community is one way we can live out the values of the company.
“The city lists the renovation of the YMCA among the top priorities for Keokuk. We wanted to help restore this resource for our neighbors and help make Keokuk more attractive for newcomers who might like to live and work here. Our hope is that other businesses will follow suit and join the effort to help fund improvements for our city.”
