WEST CHESTER, PA — On Friday, May 30, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) hosted the Safety Around Water (SAW) Impact Tour at the West Chester Area YMCA to mark National Water Safety Month. The event drew elected officials, community partners, and supporters to spotlight the Y’s efforts to provide lifesaving swim education for children, regardless of their financial background.
The program, aimed at reducing drowning risks and improving water confidence, underscores a central message shared by Leslie Seifert, Senior Director of Aquatics: “Water doesn’t discriminate. Even Olympic pools have lifeguards. Every child deserves to feel confident and safe around water.”
The tour included demonstrations at four interactive pool stations, each focusing on critical water safety skills. These stations covered topics such as safe water entry, the proper use of life jackets, treading and floating techniques, and safe ways to assist someone in water distress.
State Representative Chrissy Houlahan, a strong advocate of the program, praised its impact. “I am so pleased that kids can learn about water safety and how to swim thanks to the YMCA’s program. My own children learned to swim at a Y in our district, and their confidence in the water helped to keep them safe as young swimmers,” she noted.
Senator John Kane also expressed his support, emphasizing the program’s life-saving potential. “The YMCA’s water safety program isn’t just teaching skills—it’s saving lives,” said Kane. “Watching these dedicated instructors work with our children was powerful. Water safety is for everyone, and this program is truly saving lives in our community.”
To identify students in need of swim skills, the YMCA collaborates with local school districts to deliver free lessons designed to prevent drowning and bolster water confidence. The SAW program currently provides instruction to second graders from schools like Starkweather Elementary.
Funded by donors and local partners, the Safety Around Water initiative reflects the YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to be safe and confident in and around water. The program continues to expand access to these essential lessons, ensuring water safety remains within everyone’s reach.
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