Greensboro, N.C., May 21, 2024 – The YMCA of Greensboro is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Splash of Joy grant from POOLCORP for the third consecutive year. This year's grant, which is set to take effect on June 1, will enable the YMCA to provide free Safety Around Water classes to 1,000 children and offer American Red Cross Lifeguard Training to 75 participants.
The YMCA Safety Around Water program equips participants with essential water skills, including front glide, back glide, swim-float-swim, jump-push-turn-grab and submerging in water. These classes are taught by certified swim lesson instructors. Thanks to the previous POOLCORP grants, the YMCA of Greensboro was able to provide Safety Around Water classes to nearly 2,000 children in 2022 and 2023.
Water safety skills are crucial life skills that every child should have access to, regardless of their background. Recognizing swimming as a vital life skill, the YMCA of Greensboro firmly believes that it should remain a top priority for our community. The classes will be conducted at various branches throughout the association and at the Greensboro City pools, thanks to a partnership with Greensboro Parks and Recreation.
"We are honored to have the opportunity to continue serving our community by offering free Safety Around Water and lifeguard training classes," said Rhonda Anderson, CEO and President of the YMCA of Greensboro. "Drowning, being the leading cause of death for children, is unacceptable. Drowning is preventable, and we must do our part to educate and teach our youth life skills such as swimming and being safe in and around the water."
To learn more about the YMCA of Greensboro's free Safety Around Water classes, please visit ymcagreensboro.org/saw. Lifeguard courses will be available throughout the year at various locations in Guilford and Rockingham Counties. For information and registration, visit ymcagreensboro.org.
About the YMCA of Greensboro
The YMCA of Greensboro is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The organization was founded in 1889 with a mission to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Through its seven branches and YMCA Camp Weaver, the YMCA of Greensboro is strengthening the foundations of the community through its wide range of programs and services for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. For more information on the YMCA of Greensboro, visit ymcagreensboro.org.