POOLCORP, a leading global wholesale distributor of swimming pool supplies and outdoor living products, is once again teaming up with YMCAs across the country to help children learn life-saving swimming skills.
The company has donated more than $3 million to 21 YMCAs throughout the country since the program’s inception in 2021. These funds have been critical in providing free training for 2,000 lifeguards and swim lessons for more than 30,000 children.
“As an organization and a leader in the swimming pool industry, we believe that everyone should know how to swim,” says Kendall Large, POOLCORP’s vice president of strategic marketing. “At the center of our program is an unwavering commitment to reach children who are furthest from this opportunity.”
Research shows 79% of children in households with an income less than $50,000 have few-to-no swimming skills, and just over a third of U.S. parents say they cannot afford swimming lessons for their children. POOLCORP’s partnership with the YMCA is aimed at closing that gap through continued support in 2023.
This year, POOLCORP announced new partnerships with community YMCAs in California, Texas, South Carolina, Ohio and Massachusetts. The company’s 6,000 employees also play a significant role in the program. To guarantee children have what they need to participate in swim lessons, POOLCORP employees donate new swimsuits, towels and other swim gear to ensure there are no barriers keeping kids from joining.
“We are committed to making a difference in the communities where we live and work,” says Jennifer Neil, POOLCORP’s vice president and chief legal officer. “For children, learning to swim is a critical safety skill, but it’s also a way to boost confidence and help pave the way for a better, happier future — and we are proud to support that pathway in every way possible.”
Gordon Wadge, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater New Orleans, has been part of POOLCORP’s swim safety program since its inception and continues to see a positive impact in the community today.
“POOLCORP’s partnership with the YMCA saves lives,” Wadge says. “Together, we want every child to be safe around the water — and with the YMCA being known as ‘America’s Swim Instructor’ and POOLCORP as one of the leaders in the swimming pool industry — what better partnership to make this happen.”
For more information about POOLCORP’s partnership with YMCAs and other charitable programs, visit poolcorp.com/splash-of-joy. Swim gear donations from the community are also welcome through the program’s Amazon Wish List.
