Kids learn to swim for free

Photo: Contributed

In 2017, the Across the Lake Swim Society invested $40,000 into the YMCA Okanagan Swims Program to give vital swim lessons to 2,800 children, helping drown-proof the Okanagan.
 
The YMCA of Okanagan Swims program was established to ensure elementary aged children from School District #23 have equal opportunity to master the basic swim skills needed to be safe in and around the water. The program is funded mostly by the generosity of the Across the Lake Swim Society. When the program started in 2012, it was free for every grade three student between Peachland to Lake Country. Since then it has grown to include all grade four students as well. 
 
“Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children under the age of 15,” says Peter Rudd, President of the Across the Lake Swim Society. “With the abundance of lakes, rivers and private pools in the Okanagan, it is our commitment to help prevent water-related injuries and fatalities. By participating in the Interior Savings Across the Lake Swim Kelowna, you are helping fund this program that ensures almost 3,000 children a year will learn lifesaving water safety skills.”
 
“This program saves lives,” says Randall Wight, YMCA Senior Aquatic Manager. “The Across the Lake Swim Society is showing tremendous leadership by enabling the YMCA to help a generation of kids understand the importance of water safety. Our collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to keeping children from our community safe.”
 
The Interior Savings Across the Lake Swim Kelowna, Canada’s largest and longest running open water swim, will be celebrating its 70th anniversary on July 14, 2018. Visit www.acrossthelakeswim.com for more information or to register. 
 
To learn more about the YMCA Okanagan Swims Program or how to support it, please contact Randall Wight at 250-491-9622 ext. 405