Sports and recreation are more than just hobbies; they’re transformative tools that build stronger communities, foster personal growth, and promote physical and mental well-being. Across the nation, volunteers dedicate countless hours to making these opportunities accessible. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, one in four Americans volunteer, contributing an estimated 6.9 billion hours of service annually, valued at approximately $167 billion. These efforts are the backbone of thriving communities (https://bit.ly/3YYn8zB).
At BFW/Marcum, employees don’t just enhance communities through engineering and design—they go a step further by actively giving back. Two inspiring examples are Kate Roussel and Mark Thompson, who dedicate their free time to mentoring youth and fostering recreation opportunities, proving that the real work of community building often begins after the workday ends.
Kate Roussel: Leading Young Lives Toward Brighter Futures
For Senior Art Director Kate Roussel, making a difference in her community means investing in the next generation through Young Life, a nonprofit that fosters relationships and spiritual growth in young people.
When asked how she became involved, Roussel explained:
“A friend of mine has been involved for years, and I’ve seen the deeply positive influence it’s had on her sons and their family. As my children enter their high school years, I was invited to join a new campaign to support the youth in our area. I jumped at the chance.”
Programs like Young Life resonate deeply with Roussel, who believes they meet critical needs for today’s youth.
“We’re all looking for relationships, purpose, and deeper meaning in life. Young Life volunteers meet kids where they are and address their specific needs through connection and spiritual formation. It helps them refocus on meaningful, lasting relationships.”
Her work with Young Life has already made a significant impact, creating meaningful connections between youth and the broader community.
“Our local Young Life campaigns have brought together business leaders, schools, and individuals across ecumenical lines for the common cause of supporting our youth. The energy and momentum developing have been amazing to watch.”
Roussel hopes her efforts will leave a lasting legacy:
“Young Life changes lives. I’ve heard numerous stories from alumni who found a sense of belonging, developed a healthy identity, and discovered a purpose for their life, all because of the influence of this community. From a spiritual sense, the impact is eternal.”
Mark Thompson: Driving Community Growth, One Swing at a Time
For Mark Thompson, BFW/Marcum’s Business Development Associate, community-building means more than just his work—it’s also about using his love for golf to foster personal growth and community connections.
His passion for the game and the Paxton Park Golf Commission stems from a long-standing respect for Danny Mullen, Paxton Park’s Director of Golf.
“I’ve worked with Danny for 20 years during my time as Parks and Recreation Director in Paducah. His diligent efforts have transformed Paxton Park into a gem of a recreational facility, often on a shoestring budget. With my connections to the city, I hope to secure further support for this incredible space. Paxton Park can contribute to Paducah’s quality of life for generations.”
Thompson sees golf as more than a sport—it’s a tool for building character and fostering relationships.
“Golf epitomizes what I enjoy: taking time to be with friends in a fun, healthy, and competitive lifetime recreational activity.”
Youth engagement is a cornerstone of Paxton Park’s mission, and Thompson is proud to help make it happen.
“Paxton Park provides a terrific venue for kids to learn the game under the watchful eyes of mentors. It’s the home course for Paducah Tilghman and McCracken County High Schools. Golf is a lifetime sport that teaches self-sufficiency, accountability, and sportsmanship in a fun and rewarding atmosphere. If you can play together, you can work together.”
Thompson points to local PGA champions Russ Cochran and Kenny Perry as examples of how Paxton Park’s programs cultivate success.
“They learned to play golf the right way here at Paxton Park, where they were taught good behavior, sportsmanship, and honesty. Even now, they come back to support youth golf programs and help raise funds to continue the legacy.”
Looking to the future, Thompson envisions expanded opportunities for youth to learn and thrive.
“We need to ensure golf lessons are accessible to any child who wants to learn. It’s a game for everyone. Keeping kids engaged in healthy activities helps them become productive and take on leadership roles, which positively impacts their community.”
The Ripple Effect of Volunteerism
Kate Roussel and Mark Thompson exemplify how passion and play can transform lives. Research supports their efforts; volunteering reduces stress, combats depression, and fosters a sense of purpose, according to the National Institute on Aging. In the realm of sports and recreation, these benefits multiply. Community programs improve social cohesion, reduce crime rates, and nurture future leaders.
Through their dedication to mentoring youth and promoting recreation, Roussel and Thompson demonstrate that building stronger communities isn’t confined to the workplace. It’s a lifelong commitment to making a difference—one relationship, one swing, and one step at a time.
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