Swim-to-Grow

The YWCA Swim-to-Grow Program provides swimming classes to individuals and groups of school-age children with a special focus on those who are at-risk or low-income.

The goal of the Swim to Grow program is to provide a positive environment where the children can learn a new skill and enjoy friends in an atmosphere of respect for one another.  On average, 65% of children advance at least one swimming level during their time at the YWCA.  Of those who do not, the majority have never taken lessons and some have never been in a pool.

Lesser-known benefits of learning to swim include improved posture, coordination and rhythm, increased strength; healthy respect for one's body; sequencing skills impacting brain development and strengthening linguistic abilities including reading.  It is hoped that through their participation in the Swim-to-Grow Program, children will learn to participate in positive rather than negative recreational choices and grow into healthy, well-rounded adults.

The program currently serves up to 280 individual children and children from Aldo Leopold and Howe Schools and the Salvation Army Camp Hope.

For more information on Swim-to-Grow, contact Brenda Rosenstiel, Health and Wellness Director, at 432-5581, ext. 135.