May 7, 2025
May is National Water Safety Month, and the YMCA of Rock River Valley is excited to announce an opportunity for families to receive free swim lessons this summer. The Y will offer 100 outdoor lessons at Sand Park and Alpine pools, and 40 lessons at the SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA.
Drowning poses a considerable risk for youth, especially those from underserved populations. Every year in our country, approximately 900 children die from drowning, and thousands more are hospitalized. The statistics are sobering, but drowning deaths are preventable.
“The YMCA believes everyone should have the chance to learn how to stay safe around water,” said Jamie Lowery, Senior Director of Aquatics. “Learning to swim is a life skill. It builds confidence and a sense of achievement in youth.”
Outdoor Lessons Grant: The outdoor lessons are part of the Safety Now-Skills for Life initiative, which is funded through a Congressionally Directed Spending allocation in the amount of $400,000 initiated by Senator Tammy Duckworth. Funds for this Congressionally Directed Spending Initiative is administered through the Department of Education. 100% of this program will be financed with these funds. The Y is offering 100 free beginner level lessons to children ages 4 to 14. Families can learn more and apply online here.
Indoor Lessons Grant: The Y will provide 40 indoor lessons for children ages 3-5 at the SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA. Lessons will be offered in two-month sessions. The lessons are provided through a grant from the DuPage County Health Department’s Protect Swimmers 10M Community Awareness Initiative, which is funded through the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Pool Safety Grant Program. The Y is among 16 pools across the state to earn the grant. Families can learn more and apply online here.
As part of National Water Safety Month, the Y is encouraging parents to play an active role in promoting water safety and providing five tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all.
- Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.
- Never swim alone or without a water watcher.
- Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water. Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.
- Don’t engage in breath holding activities.
- Wear a life jacket. Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
