Give Kids the Opportunity To Learn How To Swim!

Students at our own Y Discovery Preschool take their first 'kicks' in learning to swim!

                 
 Click Here to Make a Donation!

Why Donate to the YMCA?
       

In 2007, 65 individuals died from drowning in the state of South Carolina (DHEC 2007). Nationally, drowning continues to be the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children aged 0 to 19 years (CDC 2008). On average in the U.S. nearly 3 children die each day as a result of drowning.

For those living in Beaufort County, in which water is all around us, these facts are startling and disheartening. While many of us enjoy the water and look forward to the many activities it has to offer, there are plenty who fear and are uncomfortable with our proximity to the coast. Far too many people in our community are living near water without the vital ability to swim.We at the YMCA believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn how to swim and safely enjoy the water.

The YMCA is known as “Americas Favorite Swim Instructor” with good reason. For over 100 years, the YMCA has pioneered group swim lessons instruction. In keeping with national standards, our lessons help individuals lay a good foundation of aquatic skills and build upon their natural talents. Participants are taught not only swimming strokes but also skills that will allow them to enjoy aquatic activities throughout their lives. These include personal safety, rescue skills, leadership, as well as water sports and games. 
 
The majority of individuals that we teach are children ages 3-10. On average, over 800 individuals are served yearly through our swim lessons. Countless others also benefit from access and visiting our pools during the year. More than half of our participants are able to take swim lessons because of the generosity of individuals contributing to the scholarship campaigns and through grants and fundraisers such as this. 

Please consider donating towards the scholarship campaign in order to help someone in need.