Swimmers for Life Donates to the North Suburban YMCA to Keep Kids Safe Around Water
Swimmers for Life, a non-profit created by former members of the Deerfield High School swim team, has raised $3,500 in support of the North Suburban YMCA's swim programs helping make them accessible for local children those who could otherwise not afford them. The donation continues a partnership between the Y and the group's founders who launched Swimmers for Life while still in high school to promote water safety for children.
Founders Lauren Kurzydlo and Grace Frankel were inspired to create Swimmers for Life six years ago in 2014, when they were teammates at Deerfield High School. They shared a lifelong love of swimming and felt strongly that all children should have the opportunity to enjoy the water safely. Stunned by statistics that show accidental drowning to be the second leading cause of death among children, the swimmers decided to work with the YMCA to support swim lesson scholarships and helped develop the ambitious "2 Seconds 2 Long" program which teaches young children about drowning prevention.
"Swimming is an essential skill that all people should know for safety purposes, which both Swimmers for Life and the North Suburban YMCA have worked to promote. All children should have the opportunity to take swim lessons regardless of their parents's ability to pay for them," notes Frankel.
The latest Swimmers for Life donation, raised in part through an email and Go Fund Me campaign, will enable more children to participate in the "2 Seconds 2 Long"program, help fund swim lessons for those children unable to pay, and support the YMCA's Flying Turtles Swim Team for kids with special needs.
"They (NSYMCA) match our enthusiasm with the mission to prevent childhood drownings and we are so grateful to be their partners," stated Kurzydlo.
The current 2020 Swimmers for Life team includes Lily Kurzydlo, Anna Kurzydlo, Jane Frankel, Arthur Frankel, Grace Frankel, and Zuzanna Janusz, along with founders Lauren Kurzydlo and Grace Frankel.
"We are so thankful that this great group continues to support young swimmers in need," commented North Suburban YMCA CEO Kathy Fielding. "Their dedication will help provide life-changing experiences for those who would otherwise be at risk."
For information about the North Suburban YMCA and its Aquatics Programs, visit nsymca.org.
About the North Suburban YMCA
The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents 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.