Edgemont Primary 2nd Graders Get Swim Lessons At The Y
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Valley Ridge, VA (May 21, 2018) - As part of the Y’s commitment to reduce drowning rates and keep kids safe in and around the water, the Alleghany Highlands YMCA recently provided scholarships for swim instruction and water safety to 72 second graders from the Edgemont Primary School.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fatal drowning is the second-leading cause of death for children ages one to 14. A study conducted in 2011 by USA Swimming found that in ethnically diverse communities, the youth drowning rate is two to three times higher than the national average. Additionally, nearly six out of 10 African American and Hispanic/Latino children are unable to swim, nearly twice as many as their Caucasian counterparts.
“Educating children about how to be safe around water is just as important as teaching them to look both ways before they cross the street,” said Shari Peterson, Aquatics Director, Alleghany Highlands YMCA. “The Y teaches children of all ages and backgrounds that water should be fun, not feared, and this practice not only saves lives, it builds confidence.”
The Y has been a leader in providing swim lessons and water safety for more than 25 years. The Alleghany Highlands YMCA continues to help youth and adults experience the joy and benefits of swimming so they can be healthy, confident and secure in the water. There are a variety of programs to choose from, including family swim, competitive swimming, water exercise classes, lap swimming and group and private swim lessons. | | | | | |
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