North Suburban YMCA Named Finalist for State Farm Neighborhood Assist® Grant
The North Suburban YMCA has been named one of 200 finalists nationwide for the State Farm Neighborhood Assist® Grant for its "2 Seconds 2 Long" youth drowning prevention program. Drowning is the second-leading cause of accidental deaths for children under age 14, and the NSYMCA is dedicated to providing swim safety lessons for all kids. Grants of $25,000 will be awarded to the top 40 agencies who acquire the most online votes. The NSYMCA has asked the community to vote online at the designated State Farm Neighborhood Assist® NSYMCA page, at https://www.neighborhoodassist.com/entry/2011293. Voting opens on August 15 and runs until August 24, and individuals can vote 10 times per day, every day during the voting period.
Sadly, research shows that if a child doesn't learn to swim by third grade, chances are they never will. Participation in formal swimming lessons can greatly reduce the risk of drowning. The Y's "2 Seconds 2 Long" campaign is focused on giving all local second graders the opportunity to become safe around water.
"The $25,000 grant would provide funds for over 150 second grade students to participate in the Y's water safety lessons," said Missy Contri, NSYMCA's Director of Aquatics, "and guarantee free swim safety lessons to those who need it. Teaching a child to swim is an important life skill that saves lives." The Y is coordinating with four schools in Wheeling and three schools in Northbrook to recruit and transport children for swim safety classes this fall, and will be expanding to more schools as the year progresses.
Emphasizing the Y's status as "America's Swim Instructor," the North Suburban YMCA has spearheaded the effort to address the grave, but fixable issue of childhood drowning. The Y's "2 Seconds 2 Long" program is a strategic initiative launched as part of its 50th Anniversary Celebration. The program aligns with a national YMCA initiative designed to improve child safety around water, targeting underserved children to equip them with fundamental swimming and safety-around-water skills.
For more information about ways to support the North Suburban YMCA's community initiatives, visit NSYMCA.org.
About the North Suburban YMCA
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2018/19, the North Suburban YMCA provides individuals in Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help them become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.