Make Our Kids Watersafe

In the United States, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of death in children under 10. 

I am a lifelong swimmer. My parents gave me lessons at the Lakewood Swim Club in Springfield, Ohio when I was five. I had been terrified of the water and would not go near the pool—until my mother removed my life jacket and turned her back. I ran straight to the deep end of the pool and jumped. And so, the lessons.

I swim for the joy of swimming. I am a 20+year member of the Long Beach Grunions, a masters swim team. Through the team I was introduced to Aquatic Capital of America (“ACOA”) a non-profit organization whose mission is to support youth aquatics in Long Beach from sailing, rowing, outrigger canoes, dragon boats, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, water polo, surfing, and windsurfing.

There are currently two primary initiatives administered by ACOA: Waterproof Our Youth and Grants for Gear. These goals are to provide funding for lessons so underserved children become water safe and learn to swim, and to provide the gear needed by them to participate.

I was drawn to ACOA and its mission when I learned how many children in Long Beach do not know how to swim and whose families do not have the resources to give them lessons. One of my favorite things after swimming at the pool is watching the toddlers and young children in their swimming lessons. I love to see their fear turn into excitement and joy. I ask that you contribute whatever you can to make sure that the children of this beach community are safe and able to swim.