By Travis Smola
The Bubs 73 foundation, in memory of Chad “Bubba” Hildebrand, has now raised in excess of $90,000 for the Vicksburg community since it was founded in 2009.
And Bubba’s mother, Kathy McCormick, wants to recognize the community that has made it all possible. “We just have an unbelievable amount of support from the community,” McCormick said.
The events in his honor started small, but have continued to grow every year. The Bubs 73 foundation now gives out scholarships for two students each year. Other projects include sponsorships of area youth athletic teams, lunch for the Backpack Bonanza, and various other community projects. McCormick said they had between 400 and 500 participants between the golf outing and benefit ride this year to raise funds.
Events put on by the foundation have grown exponentially since they started holding them. “It just kind of snowballed,” McCormick said.
The foundation has grown its contributions to the community over the years. It has also provided clothing for children in need, numerous sponsorships and projects for athletic track and field.
It’s hoping to keep helping in the community and are looking to get involved in projects such as the new downtown development project.
“We just want to give a big thank-you to the community,” McCormick said. The number of people who participate in events or volunteer just keeps growing. To the point she has a difficult time finding a way to thank them all.
“It takes a village, it really does,” McCormick said. “We couldn’t do it without them.”