YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties Teaches Kids How to Swim this Summer

Local children recently learned life-saving swimming and water safety skills through the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties’ “Swim Safe” program.

Supported by the Rotary Clubs of Burlington, Medford-Vincentown, Moorestown, Mt. Laurel and Willingboro and media sponsor, the Burlington County Times, the free program for children ages 6-12 prepares children by teaching basic swimming and water safety skills with the goal of creating a sense of accomplishment and increased self-confidence and security while in and around the water.

“Learning to swim is not only a great way for kids to stay healthy – it’s also a critical safety skill. We encourage area children to take advantage of this free program,” said Tim Kerrihard, President and CEO of the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties.

“There is no greater goal than keeping our children safe and teaching them the skills to live and play with confidence and security,” said Amy Gianficaro, community affairs director at the Burlington County Times. “The Swim Safe program provided by the YMCA of Burlington and Camden is a wonderful example of commitment to this objective and to the protection of all children. The Burlington County Times is grateful for this work and proud to be a community partner in the Swim Safe program. We’re especially proud of all the children in our community who now can splash and play with confidence.”

Since its inception in 2013, more than 3,500 youth in the region have participated in the Y’s Swim Safe program. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death for children under the age of 14.

Swim Safe (Check presentation): YMCA of Burlington and Camden County representatives Dana Dreby, Vice President of Operations; Tim Kerrihard, President and CEO; Jen Segelken, Development Director; and Linda Davis, Associate Executive Director, Aquatic proudly display a donation from the Rotary Clubs of Burlington, Medford-Vincentown, Moorestown, Mt. Laurel and Willingboro and media sponsor, the Burlington County Times to support the Swim Safe program.

Photos of kids: Local child learns basic swimming and water safety skills at the Y’s Swim Safe program.

About the Y
The YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties is a cause-driven, community based, charitable organization that strengthens community by building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults and families. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the community’s health and well-being and provides opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Throughout neighborhoods across the two counties and its 50+ sites, the Y makes accessible the support and opportunities that empower more than 30,000 people each year to learn, grow and thrive. Visit ymca-bc.org.