Our Story
Lue grew up in Mexico with wonderful memories of his childhood, full of community spirit and activity.
Factories closed and with that came a negative domino effect for many residents, Ty witnessed his beloved town face systemic barriers to economic development amid newfound challenges
For the past 15 years, Coach Lue has hosted a July 4th community day in Mexico. It is a day of joy, celebration and festivities. As Lue’s good fortune with the NBA continued, he felt there was no point in being successful, if he could not share his success with others and has chosen to expand his community giving efforts to to drive long-term, sustainable and equitable impact to improve the lives of all Mexico residents through deep community engagement and partnerships.
In 2023 and 2024, the C2C team held a series of community conversations. Residents, youth, business owners, the faith community, elders, families and civic leaders gathered and shared their dreams for their town. The community’s passion and voice led to the C2C plan that will create a pathway to upward mobility in Mexico.
Why Mexico, Missouri
In addition to being the hometown of Tyronn Lue, it is the current home to over 11,000 people. Mexico is facing systemic barriers to economic development. As capital and economic activity increasingly concentrate in urban areas, the number of businesses in this rural area have plummeted, and community spaces have turned into boarded-up buildings.
More than one in four households with children in Mexico are economically disadvantaged. Many families face homelessness and food insecurity, affecting student learning outcomes. The proportion of students deemed proficient in all subject areas is significantly lower than the state average. The need for family support is exacerbated by a lack of transportation and childcare options, creating barriers for Mexico residents to access critical programs and services.Every single one of those facts could improve and C2C is working to ensure that happens.
Percentage of assessed children scoring in the top 50% of national norms according to aimswebPLUS kindergarten entry assessment.
26.7%
Kindergarten Readiness
Percentage of 3rd graders who are proficient in reading.
30%
Early Grade Literacy
Percentage of 8th graders who are proficient in math.
29%
Middle Grade Numeracy
Percentage of students who graduate college ready (using a proxy data point).
25.3% Graduate High School College Ready
Mexico Education Data
C2C has created a district-wide strategy to transform five schools into
community schools, integrating academics, youth development, family support, health services, and community
development
Community Schools Initiative
Community leaders and residents are developing a community action plan
(CAP) focused on improving outcomes for youth. An Executive Director has been hired and a community needs
assessment has been completed.
Place-Based Partnership Backbone
Seven full-time staff are being hired to provide extended learning opportunities and college
access programs for high school students.
Academic Support
C2C Initiatives in Action
Local Partnerships
In addition to our national partners, C2C has received robust local support from residents, businesses, and political agencies who are committed to achieving our shared vision. To formalize their support, Consortium members signed an initial, shared Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Our inaugural Consortium members include:
Mexico Public Schools District
Mexico YMCA
Mexico Chamber of Commerce
Presser Performing Arts Center
Audrain County Health Department
Mexico Library
National Center for Families Learning
Get In Touch
Learn how you can support Mexico, MO