THPRD Offering Free Swim Lessons to Underserved Families
For the fourth consecutive year, the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District will offer free swim lessons through USA Swimming Foundation’s “Make a Splash” initiative.
THPRD Aquatics staff expect to serve 300 total children, in age groups 3-6, 7-12 and 13-17 during the week of June 11-15. All of the park district’s six indoor aquatic centers (Aloha, Beaverton, Conestoga, Harman, Sunset and the Tualatin Hills Aquatic Center) will participate (note: Conestoga and Harman will offer the free lessons June 11-14).
THPRD’s goal is to increase swim lesson participation and share water safety information throughout the community, particularly in underserved areas. The district will connect with underserved families through community events and outreach.
The program will also provide the opportunity for Aquatics to further train newly recruited instructors in advance of summer swim lessons.
Funds for the lessons will be raised through the Helping Hands campaign held at all aquatic centers in May in conjunction with National Water Safety Month. Last year, $2,685 was raised, which completely offset the program’s cost. This year’s goal is the same. Donations will be accepted at all THPRD swim centers throughout May.
Formal swim lessons greatly reduce the likelihood of childhood drowning, yet 79% of children in households with incomes of less than $50,000 have little to no swimming ability, according to Make a Splash.
About THPRD
Formed in 1955, THPRD is the largest special park district in Oregon, spanning 50 square miles and serving about 250,000 residents in the greater Beaverton area. The district provides year-round recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Offerings include thousands of widely diverse classes, 95 park sites with active recreational amenities, nearly 70 miles of trails, eight swim centers, six recreation centers, and about 1,500 acres of natural areas. For more information, visit www.thprd.org or call 503-645-6433.
| Contact: Bob Wayt Director – Communications 503/614-1218 (direct) 503/686-5134 (cell) |
Date: April 30, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Click here for official release (PDF). |