Jim Hickman is best known for his generosity to his community.

The Mexico Area Family YMCA dedicated the YCafé to Hickman during an open house on Oct. 28, where his family, fellow veterans and YMCA supporters joined him in celebrating his legacy.

“Mr. Hickman has set a remarkable example of what it means to care for others,” Brooke Oliver, Mexico Area Family YMCA chief executive officer, said in a news release. “Naming the YCafé in his honor ensures that his legacy will continue to nourish both body and spirit for generations to come.”

Sherry Medley, former executive director, said that Hickman was always supportive of both youth and adult programs offered at the YMCA. He regularly made donations and provided food for its events.

Medley also said that when the new addition to the YMCA was built, the hope was that the YCafé would become the heart of the facility.

“It’s an important part of the Y, and I think that naming it after Jim was our sincere effort to honor him and his contribution,” she said.

The YCafé currently serves as a meeting space for civic organizations, a place for celebration and a spot for members to convene. It also provides free lunch for any child in the community under age 18 during the summer months.

According to a press release, in February 2024 the YMCA partnered with Tyronn Lue’s C2C program to expand the YCafé’s impact by offering free after-school meals. In less than eight months, more than 7,000 meals have been served to school-aged youth — further carrying forward the spirit of generosity and service that Hickman has always exemplified.

“The Jim Hickman Cafe” will adorn the east wall of the cafe.

“I am so proud of the special services the Y provides for the Mexico community — their programs are greatly appreciated, and I am proud to be a supporter,” Hickman said in the release. “Thank you, YMCA, for this very special honor”