During #GivingTuesday on Dec. 3, 2019, the Florida Swims
Foundation raised $2,675 to help fund swim lessons for young children in
Florida. The organization, which is the
charitable arm of the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA), has its visions
set on ensuring every child in the Sunshine state has a swimming lesson before kindergarten.
“The donations, which mostly came from FSPA members, are a
kick-start to our 2020 campaign,” said FSPA executive director Wendy Parker
Barsell. “It’s just the latest example
of the swimming pool industry coming together to support an amazing cause.”
Indigo Swimming Pools and Outdoor Living of Venice and Gulf Breeze
Pools and Spas of Gulf Breeze both donated $1,000 to the cause.
“Making sure every child in the state learns to swim is very
important to us,” said Pat Ireland, owner of Indigo Swimming Pools and Outdoor
Living. “As a company, we are
tremendously proud to support this cause.”
The Florida Swims Foundation funds swimming lessons
throughout Florida and the dissemination of safety information and materials.
In partnership with local FSPA chapters, Florida Swims provided grants totaling
$27,095 in grants for swimming lessons in 2017.
FSPA’s 14 Florida chapters collaborate local organizations
such as Safe Kids, Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs, to bring important water
safety messages and swimming lessons directly to families with young children.