The Legacy of the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall
Since opening its doors in 1975, the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall has been more than a place to work out — it's been a trusted partner in the growth of this community. From its earliest days as a grassroots effort led by local families and civic groups, the Rockwall YMCA has stood as a space where kids learn how to swim, teens find their first mentors, and members become lifelong friends.
Over the past five decades, the Rockwall YMCA has grown alongside the city it serves — expanding programs, building new spaces, and continuously adapting to meet the changing needs of Rockwall families. Whether through youth sports, Angel Camp, swim lessons, or our wellness programs, this Y has helped generations thrive in body, mind, and spirit.
As we celebrate 50 years of impact, we invite you to explore our story — a story shaped by thousands of members, volunteers, donors, and staff who made this milestone possible. This isn’t just a celebration of the past — it’s a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together.
Rockwall Youth Community Center (1969)
Adventure Guides - Pumpkin Carving
Rockwall Pool Dedication (1989)
Rockwall YMCA Building (1992)
Pool Cover Erection (1999)
J.E.R. Chilton Aquatic Sign (1999)
Aquatic Cover Addition (1999)
Adventure Guides Archery (2006)
Outdoor Pool (2007)
First Angel Camp (2009)
Senior Chair Fitness (2009)
J.E.R. Chilton Bob Grant - Check Presentation (2012)
Facility Expansion (2013)
New Facility (2014)
“You walk in and someone smiles, someone asks about your day. That’s rare. And that’s what makes the Chilton YMCA special.”
— Brett Packer
Rockwall YMCA Through the Years
Humble Beginnings
In 1969, Rockwall residents united to bring a YMCA to their community. That year, a petition was submitted to the YMCA of Dallas County requesting the establishment of an extension program — not a full branch — that would operate out of the local community center. The effort was backed by signatures from members of the Friday Study Club, Rockwall Baseball Association, Cub Scouts Pack 399, RISD, Rockwall Memorial Youth Center, Rotary Club, and young adult groups from First Baptist and First Methodist churches. That same year, the Y’s first local activity launched: pee-wee football, officially marking the beginning of Rockwall’s YMCA legacy.
Becoming a Branch
Rockwall became an official YMCA branch in 1975, and a year later, Danny Meigs was hired as its first full-time director. As programs quickly expanded, the community rallied together in 1979 to raise nearly $50,000 through its first capital campaign. This effort, combined with support from the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, led to the opening of a new facility in 1983. Continued growth followed, with a building expansion in 1988 and the addition of an outdoor pool and bathhouse in 1989.
A Growing Community
In 1992, the Rockwall YMCA added a full gymnasium to support growing programs. A few years later, in 1999, a pool cover was installed thanks to the support of the Chilton and Hawk families, allowing year-round swim access. In 2009, the Y launched Angel Camp, a summer program for children with special needs. It quickly became one of the branch’s most meaningful and beloved offerings. By 2012, the facility expanded again to meet rising demand and was renamed the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA in honor of longtime supporter J.E.R. Chilton — a lasting tribute to the legacy he helped build.
The Legacy Continues
Now in our 50th year, the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall is once again preparing to expand to meet the needs of a growing city.
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