Together, we can teach 1,000 kids to swim this summer 🐥

This April, the YMCA of Coastal Carolina is launching the Splash Safe Challenge—an ambitious effort to provide 1,000 free swim programs to children across our community.

We believe that every child deserves to feel safe and confident in the water. Yet, far too many don’t have access to swim lessons, and that puts them at risk.

Why It Matters

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4, and the second leading cause of injury-related deathfor children ages 5 to 14. The statistics are heartbreaking—but preventable.

Many families in our community face barriers to swim lessons due to cost, transportation, or lack of access. According to the American Red Cross, 79% of children in households earning under $50,000 have few-to-no swimming skills. 

We’re working to change that—one splash at a time.

How You Can Help

When you give to the Water Safety for All Fund, you’re doing more than just donating. You’re helping:

• A child learn life-saving swim skills
• A parent feel more confident at the pool or beach
• A family access resources that may have felt out of reach
• A generation grow up with more safety, confidence, and joy around water

Every $50 gift provides a 4-week swim program for one child.

Thanks to our generous donors, Melinda Grafton and Michael Lestingi, all donations will be matched up to $7,500—so your gift goes twice as far.

Make a Splash With Us

This campaign isn’t just about fundraising. It’s about community. Throughout April and May, you’ll see duck-themed decorations at the Y!

We invite you to get involved:

• Donate: https://givebutter.com/splashsafe
• Share: Follow us on social media and spread the word using #SplashSafeChallenge
• Apply: Scholarships are available for families who need help accessing lessons

Together, we can teach 1,000 kids to swim—for free—and make this summer the safest yet.