Whether he is sponsoring the Maine Cornhole Classic to support Special Olympics Unified Champion Clubs, picking up trash during Barters Island community clean-up days, or enjoying a concert at the Boothbay Harbor Opera House, Rob Wheeler is someone who shows up for his community. But during a recent visit, it was his recertification for volunteer lifeguarding duties that put a special gleam in his eye. 

Two years ago, when the perennial shortage of lifeguards threatened to close the Boothbay Region YMCA’s pools to early-morning swimmers, Rob stepped up. He began opening the Y’s doors at 5:25 a.m. to provide a much-needed community service. 

“I grew up here and learned to swim as a kid when the Y was on Back Narrows Road,” Rob said. “The Y has always been here for my family and me, and I didn’t hesitate when they needed something that was important to the community. I have as much fun and get as much out of the experience as anyone. Those early morning swimmers have become friends, and we have a blast together.” 

Rob began his career in banking and lived in Portland and Vinalhaven before boomeranging back to the Boothbay region and ultimately buying the J. Edward Knight Insurance company in 2009. True to Rob’s generous spirit, he said he was drawn to the business because it offered “an opportunity to come back to my hometown to lead a community-rooted organization. It was also an opportunity to bring my daughter up in a town that my wife, Sandy, and I love.” 

Today, Rob is president of a bustling business with offices in Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Damariscotta, Newcastle, Rockland, and Vinalhaven. For 127 years, J. Edward Knight has served the Midcoast community, with a primary focus on property insurance, particularly homeownership, while maintaining a long-standing commitment to the people it serves. The company has also supported our local YMCAfor generations. 

Rob views philanthropy as a natural extension of that connection. He emphasizes that his company is in a position to give back because of the support it receives from the community. 

“This creates a self-sustaining cycle,” he said. “Local businesses thrive because of community support, and in turn, they reinvest in the community’s well-being.” 

Rob also recognizes that meaningful contributions come in all forms. He recalls when his daughter was young and added her own $7 donation to the Y’s pool campaign in 1999, a gesture that earned her name a place on the wall alongside major donors.“I feel proud whenever I see her name on that wall,” Rob said. “It reminds me that the Y believes, as I do, that every person, and every gift, matters. Each one helps strengthen the fabric of our community.” 

As a savvy business leader, Rob remains mindful of broader challenges facing the region, including an aging population and issues of affordability. Still, he remains optimistic, pointing to the community’s capacity to address these challenges thoughtfully. In this context, he sees the YMCA as a vital resource and a true beacon, bringing people together across generations through shared spaces, wellness, and connection. 

As a valued Business Partner and major sponsor, the Y deeply appreciates the support J. Edward Knight provides each year, including underwriting the Y’s Annual Impact Report.Rob and Sandy have also served separate terms as Trustees of the Y and truly understand the important role philanthropy plays in helping nonprofits meet both everyday needs and special capital goals.  

As a former youth basketball player, Rob was thrilled to hear about the renovation plan for the Russell Gymnasium. When asked if J. Edward Knight might consider sponsoring a naming opportunity to help raise funds for the project, he responded enthusiastically with a pledge.J. Edward Knight will now be the proud sponsor of one of the new electronic basketball hoops, which will be installed once the Y-Hoops project reaches its fundraising goal. 

“Basketball is such an important part of the fabric of this town, and we’re happy to be part of renovating a space that focuses on teamwork, community, and tradition,” Rob said. “I’m also thrilled that United Basketball is coming to the Y and that it will be accessible to all.” 

Wheeler’s story highlights the essential role philanthropy plays in sustaining vibrant, resilient communities. Whether through financial contributions, volunteerism, or small acts of generosity, giving back creates a ripple effect that strengthens local businesses and the people they serve. For companies like J. Edward Knight, philanthropy is not simply an obligation. It is a reflection of mutual support and shared responsibility. 

“We are so incredibly grateful for the many different ways that Rob, his family, and his business have supported the Y over the years,” said Andy Hamblett, the Y’s CEO. “They are a true example of a family that is all in for this community, and they demonstrate that every day through their outreach and care for others.” 

In our special community, this cycle of giving, caring for one another, and partnering together ensures that nonprofits like the YMCA continue to be catalysts for good, providing opportunities for connection, growth, and well-being for everyone.