Supporting Athletes and Community: William’s Gift to Yamile at Caminata por la Paz
When passion for sports meets generosity, incredible things happen. Thanks to a donation from William Christopher Jr., young runner Yamile Sánchez Guzmán received the gear she needed to participate in Cuilápam’s Caminata por la Paz 2025. This event, organized by CUSPP and supported by Oax Sport, brought the community together to promote peace, inclusion, and youth empowerment through sports.
Introducing Oax Sport: Empowering Local Athletes
Oax Sport is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting athletes in underserved communities across Oaxaca. Since 2020, we’ve helped local talent access the resources, training, and competitions they need to grow.
Many young athletes, like Yamile Sánchez Guzmán from Cuilápam de Guerrero, have the passion and potential to excel but lack proper gear and opportunities. That’s where donors like William Christopher Jr. make a difference. His generous gift of On Cloudrunner 2 running shoes helped Yamile prepare for the Caminata por la Paz 2025, a community event promoting peace and inclusion through sports.
Here’s how this donation, and events like Caminata, help Oax Sport discover and support athletes striving to reach their full potential.
Why Supporting Local Athletes in Oaxaca Matters
Sports as a Positive Force in Oaxaca
Sports play a crucial role in communities across Oaxaca, offering young athletes an opportunity to develop discipline, confidence, and a sense of belonging. In towns like Cuilápam de Guerrero, where access to training facilities and professional coaching is limited, sports provide a much-needed outlet for personal growth and community engagement.
For many young people, athletics is more than just competition—it’s a way to stay active, develop leadership skills, and find motivation to keep pushing forward despite life’s challenges. Running, in particular, has become a popular and accessible sport, allowing athletes to train in their local environments and compete in regional races.
Benefits for Young Athletes
- Health and Well-Being: Regular physical activity improves overall health, builds endurance, and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses.
- Personal Development: Sports help young athletes build discipline, time management skills, and mental resilience.
- Education and Career Opportunities: Competitive athletes often gain access to scholarships, sponsorships, and career opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
- Community Engagement: Local sports events bring people together, strengthening social bonds and fostering a sense of unity.
Community Engagement Through Sports
Supporting young athletes benefits entire communities. When local runners and teams achieve success, they inspire younger generations to stay active and set ambitious goals. This is especially important in Oaxaca, where sports can serve as a tool for crime prevention and social development.
Events like the Caminata por la Paz in Cuilápam are perfect examples of how sports bring people together. Organized by CUSPP (Corporativo Unido por la Seguridad Pública), this event focused on promoting peace, inclusion, and community well-being through physical activity. Participants of all ages came together to walk or run, reinforcing the idea that sports are for everyone, not just professional athletes.
How Donations Make a Difference
While talent and passion are abundant, many young athletes in Oaxaca struggle with a lack of resources. Proper running shoes, for example, are essential for injury prevention and performance. This is where donations play a critical role.
With the support of donors like William Christopher Jr., athletes like Yamile Sánchez Guzmán receive the equipment they need to continue training and competing. Yamile’s new On Cloudrunner 2 running shoes gave her the confidence and comfort to participate in the Caminata por la Paz, reinforcing the power of community-driven support.
Investing in local athletes is an investment in the future. It keeps youth engaged, encourages healthy habits, and builds a stronger, more united community.
How Oax Sport Supports Athletes Like Yamile
More Than an Organization — A Partner for Oaxacan Athletes
At Oax Sport, we believe that every athlete, no matter where they come from, deserves a fair chance to follow their dreams. We focus on helping athletes from smaller towns and rural areas who often don’t have access to professional training, proper gear, or even basic opportunities to compete. Our goal is simple — give them the tools and support they need to succeed.
“Running is not a sport that requires a lot of gear, but it does demand quality gear that is typically prohibitively expensive in Oaxaca. My role as a donations transporter and facilitator is to reach out to organizations, businesses and individuals (many of which are themselves athletes), and coordinate their equipment donations back to Mexico.” — Joanne Phipps
What We Do for Athletes
Oax Sport runs several programs that directly support athletes like Yamile Sánchez Guzmán. These programs are designed to not only offer equipment and financial support but also to build long-term relationships between athletes and supporters.
- Donations and Equipment Support: We connect athletes with donors who provide essential items like running shoes, training gear, and race entry fees.
- Event Participation Assistance: We help with registration, travel, and logistics so athletes can attend local and national events without worrying about the cost.
- Mentorship and Guidance: We connect athletes with experienced mentors who offer advice on training, health, and balancing sports with school or work.
- Connecting Donors and Athletes: We share athlete stories with donors around the world, helping them see the direct impact of their support.
Yamile’s Story — A Perfect Example of Our Mission
Yamile Sánchez Guzmán, a dedicated runner from Cuilápam de Guerrero, received a donation of On Cloudrunner 2 running shoes thanks to the generosity of William Christopher Jr.. This donation, combined with Oax Sport’s support, gave Yamile the confidence and tools to participate in the Caminata por la Paz 2025, a special community event promoting peace through sports.
Committed to Transparency and Legal Compliance
Oax Sport operates as a fully registered nonprofit organization in both the United States and Mexico. We are a 501(c)(3) charity under U.S. law, meaning all donations made by U.S. taxpayers are tax-deductible. Our legal information includes:
- Oax Sport Inc (USA)
Tax ID (EIN): 86-3407818
Registered in Austin, Texas - Oax Sport AC (Mexico)
Tax ID (RFC): OSP-230216-SG0
Registered in Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca
We follow strict financial and operational guidelines to ensure transparency, and our public records are available upon request. Every donation we receive is tracked, and we regularly publish updates showing how funds and equipment are used to benefit athletes like Yamile.
Why This Model Works
By focusing on both financial support and personal connection, Oax Sport ensures that athletes feel truly valued. Donations become more than just gear — they become proof that someone believes in them, which is a powerful motivator for young runners like Yamile.
With the support of Oax Sport, athletes can focus on improving their performance, attending events, and inspiring others in their community — all while knowing they have a trusted organization backing them every step of the way.
The Power of Donations: William’s Gift to Yamile
More Than Just Shoes — A Symbol of Support
When Yamile Sánchez Guzmán laced up her new On Cloudrunner 2 running shoes, she didn’t just receive gear — she felt the belief and support of someone who cares. This donation came from William Christopher Jr., a dedicated supporter of Oax Sport and Oaxacan athletes.
Why These Shoes Matter
High-quality gear like the On Cloudrunner 2, valued at $4,299 MXN, is often out of reach for young athletes in small communities. With CloudTec® cushioning, a supportive fit, and breathable materials, these shoes give Yamile the comfort and confidence to train longer and compete harder.
William Christopher Jr.: A Longtime Supporter
William, who divides his time between Dallas and Mexico City, has supported multiple Oax Sport athletes by donating shoes, recovery gear, and race equipment. His thoughtful contributions have already boosted athletes like Noel Fabián and Rafael Vázquez Fierro, with Yamile now joining the list.
More Than a Donation — A Personal Connection
For athletes like Yamile, knowing someone believes in their potential is as valuable as the gear itself. Through Oax Sport, donors like William stay connected, following the athletes’ progress and cheering them on. This personal connection builds lasting confidence in young athletes often training without professional guidance.
Yamile at Caminata por la Paz
With her new shoes, Yamile proudly participated in the Caminata por la Paz 2025, showing her community what’s possible with a little support. Her story highlights how a simple donation can spark confidence, motivation, and long-term impact.
Ongoing Support
Oax Sport will continue following Yamile’s journey, sharing her progress with William and all our supporters. Every contribution — big or small — helps young athletes like Yamile take the next step toward their goals.
Caminata por la Paz 2025: Connecting with the Community in Cuilápam
Strengthening Community Ties Through Sport
On February 16, 2025, over 200 participants gathered in Cuilápam de Guerrero for the Caminata por la Paz. This event was more than just a race — it was a unique opportunity for Oax Sport to engage directly with the community, meet local families, and discover promising young athletes who could benefit from our support.
Why Events Like This Matter
Community events allow us to connect with grassroots talent, understand the needs of athletes in underserved areas, and identify those with the potential to thrive with the right guidance and resources. By being present at these events, we build relationships, foster trust, and encourage more young people to embrace sports as a positive outlet.
A Direct Path to Athlete Support
Every time we attend a local event, we open the door to new stories — runners training without proper shoes, talented youth without access to competitions, and families eager to support their children but unsure how. Events like the Caminata por la Paz are where we find these athletes and begin offering the support they need to pursue their goals.
Oax Sport’s Role
At Oax Sport, we don’t just observe — we engage. We talk with participants, hear their experiences, and offer guidance on training, gear, and upcoming events. This hands-on presence is crucial for identifying athletes who, with a little support, could represent their community at state and national levels.
Spotlight on Yamile
It was through this direct community involvement that we connected with Yamile Sánchez Guzmán, a dedicated young runner from Cuilápam. Thanks to William Christopher Jr.’s generous donation, Yamile received the On Cloudrunner 2 running shoes she needed to participate — an example of how community events directly lead to athlete support.
Discover how you can support athletes like Yamile by visiting: Caminata por la Paz Event Page.
Yamile’s Participation and What It Means
Who is Yamile Sánchez Guzmán?
Yamile Sánchez Guzmán is a young runner from Cuilápam de Guerrero, Oaxaca. At just 17 years old, Yamile has already shown great commitment to her sport. She trains regularly as part of the Atlethos running club, a team that helps young athletes from Oaxaca improve their skills and gain confidence in competitive races.
Her dedication and natural talent have made her a rising name in the local running scene. With each race, Yamile strengthens her technique, builds her endurance, and grows her confidence as both an athlete and a young leader in her community.
Yamile’s Goals for 2025 and Beyond
Like many young runners, Yamile has big dreams. For 2025, she hopes to improve her race times and participate in more regional competitions. Her long-term goal is to represent her community in state and national events, showing that athletes from small towns like Cuilápam can succeed when given the right support.
Oax Sport and her coaches at Atlethos work closely with her to set achievable goals, improve her training plan, and make sure she has access to the right equipment — something that’s not always easy for athletes from rural communities.
Why This Donation and Event Matter
Every athlete needs proper gear to train and compete at their best. That’s why the donation from William Christopher Jr. meant so much to Yamile. Receiving the On Cloudrunner 2 running shoes, valued at $4,299 MXN, gave her more than just equipment — it gave her confidence. These high-quality shoes, designed for comfort and support, help her stay injury-free and train longer on different terrains.
Yamile debuted her new shoes at the Caminata por la Paz in Cuilápam, proudly representing her hometown while running alongside her neighbors, friends, and other athletes. Participating in an event so closely tied to peace, community, and youth empowerment made the moment even more meaningful.
For Yamile, the Caminata wasn’t just another run — it was proof that her community believes in her potential and is willing to support her dreams. It was also a chance for her to inspire younger children who saw her running confidently with her new gear, showing that with effort and support, they too could become athletes.
Yamile’s Personal Thank You
“I’m really thankful to William and Oax Sport for this support. Having these new running shoes makes a big difference for me. They’re comfortable, and I feel much better during training. It also motivates me to work even harder, knowing that people believe in me and want to help me succeed.” — Yamile Sánchez Guzmán
Yamile’s gratitude is a reminder of how every donation — whether it’s shoes, race fees, or training support — directly impacts the life of a young athlete. Her story is just one of many, but it shows how one act of kindness can ripple out to affect a whole community.
Follow Yamile’s progress and see how your support helps her and others by visiting Oax Sport or following her on Instagram at @mileth.schz.
Other Athletes Supported Through William and Joanne’s Donations
Yamile Sánchez Guzmán isn’t the only athlete who has received life-changing support through the generosity of William Christopher Jr. and Joanne Phipps. Both donors have become key partners in Oax Sport’s mission to give athletes in Oaxaca the resources they need to grow, train, and succeed.
Support for Asunción Pérez Ramírez
Asunción Pérez, a talented long-distance runner from rural Oaxaca, received a pair of Saucony Ride 17 shoes thanks to William’s donation. With these high-quality running shoes, Asunción improved his comfort during long training sessions, which helped him prepare for competitive events across the state.
Asunción’s story highlights how the right gear can make a real difference in both performance and personal motivation.
Boosting Priscila Santos Jerónimo’s Career
Priscila Santos, a rising star from San Cristóbal Amatlán, received a pair of Hoka Mach 6 running shoes donated by William. With these professional-level shoes, Priscila was able to train with better support, helping her secure 4th place in the 12.6 km category at the IMSS Monte Albán Race. Her success not only boosted her confidence but also inspired young girls in her community to follow in her footsteps.
Helping Noel Cirenio Fabián Reach New Levels
Long-distance runner Noel Cirenio Fabián Hernández, from San Sebastián Río Hondo, received a pair of ASICS NOVABLAST 4 shoes through William’s support. These shoes are specifically designed for long-distance training, helping Noel push his limits while reducing his risk of injury. With this boost, Noel has continued to improve his performance, representing his region proudly in regional and national competitions.
Supporting Rafael Vázquez Fierro’s Training and Recovery
William’s donations also extended to Rafael Vázquez Fierro, a well-known runner from Santiaguito, Etla. Rafael received a pair of OOFOS Slide Sandals and OS1st Active Comfort Socks — both chosen to support post-run recovery. These items help Rafael reduce stress on his joints and recover faster after long-distance races and tough training sessions.
Rafael’s consistent progress, including his podium finish at the AsTri Huatulco Duathlon, shows how even small donations aimed at recovery and comfort can have a big impact.
The Pattern of Ongoing Donor Involvement
What makes William and Joanne’s support stand out is its consistency. This isn’t about a single gift or one-time help — it’s an ongoing commitment to Oax Sport athletes. Through every pair of shoes, every piece of gear, and every encouraging message, William and Joanne have shown what it means to truly believe in the potential of young athletes in Oaxaca.
Donations from William and Joanne do more than provide equipment. They build confidence, create opportunities, and send a clear message to athletes: their work matters, their goals are worth supporting, and they are not alone.
“While an athlete’s dedication and passion for training, competition, and personal health makes a huge difference, proper and quality gear is the external support that can make the difference.” — Joanne Phipps
To learn more about these athlete stories, visit the Oax Sport Blog, where we regularly update the community on the progress of each supported athlete.
How Readers Can Support Athletes Like Yamile
At Oax Sport, we believe that every athlete deserves a fair chance to succeed, no matter where they come from. Donations, big or small, help athletes like Yamile Sánchez Guzmán access the right gear, join important events, and build confidence as they chase their goals.
Donate Directly to Oax Sport
One of the easiest ways you can make a difference is through a direct donation. Oax Sport offers safe and secure options for donating, including:
- Givebutter – A trusted fundraising platform used by nonprofits around the world.
- PayPal – Donate quickly through your PayPal account.
- Every.org – Connects donors with causes that matter.
Tax Benefits for US and Mexico Donors
All donations made through Oax Sport’s official platforms are tax-deductible. If you donate from the United States, Oax Sport Inc is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under EIN: 86-3407818. If you donate from Mexico, Oax Sport AC is officially registered under RFC: OSP-230216-SG0, allowing you to apply for tax deductions in Mexico.
Volunteer With Oax Sport
If you’re looking for a more hands-on way to help, volunteering is a great option. Whether you live locally in Oaxaca or want to offer online support, we are always looking for passionate volunteers to assist with:
- Event planning and management.
- Fundraising campaigns.
- Social media outreach and content creation.
- Translation and communication support.
Corporate and Personal Sponsorship Opportunities
Businesses and individuals can sponsor athletes like Yamile by contributing directly to their training, equipment, and travel costs. Sponsors receive public recognition on Oax Sport’s website, social media channels, and at major events. This is a meaningful way to show your commitment to youth development and social impact.
Spread the Word
Even if you’re not able to donate or volunteer, you can still help. Share Yamile’s story and the work of Oax Sport with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people know about these athletes, the better chance they have at receiving the support they need.
Together, we can make sure that every athlete in Oaxaca has the tools, support, and confidence to chase their dreams.
Conclusion: Community, Sports, and Lasting Change
Sports have the power to bring people together, create opportunities, and build a safer future. The Caminata por la Paz in Cuilápam was more than just an event—it was a statement that communities can come together to support athletes and inspire positive change.
Thanks to William Christopher Jr.’s generous donation, Yamile Sánchez Guzmán now has the proper footwear to train, compete, and grow as an athlete. Oax Sport continues to bridge the gap between donors and athletes who need support, ensuring that talent and effort do not go unnoticed.
Would you like to follow Yamile’s progress? Stay updated on her upcoming races and training by following Oax Sport and Yamile on social media.
Join the Conversation
We’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you think sports events like this can help build safer communities? Leave a comment below and share your perspective.
Support More Athletes Like Yamile
Your support helps Oax Sport empower athletes in Oaxaca’s underserved communities. Every donation provides training, equipment, and opportunities for competitions. Make your tax-deductible contribution today:
Together, we can make a difference. Whether you donate, volunteer, or share this story, your involvement helps young athletes keep moving forward.
No Affiliation Notice
Oax Sport Inc is an independent nonprofit organization and is not affiliated with CUSPP, On Running, or any other brand mentioned in this article. Product references and donations are highlighted solely to showcase the impact of community support in empowering local athletes.
Discover more from Oax Sport
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.