The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis is proud to announce it has been awarded a Youth Learn-to-Swim Grant from the USA Swimming Foundation to support lifesaving swim lessons for youth across Central Indiana.
Every summer, hundreds of children attend YMCA summer camps across the region. Thanks to this generous grant, more kids than ever before will have the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills as part of their day camp experience.
Improving water safety is a top priority for the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. This grant will help break down financial barriers that too often prevent children — especially those from low-income households — from learning to swim. According to the American Red Cross, 79% of children in low-income families have few to no swimming skills. With 22% of Indianapolis’ children living in poverty according to CensusReporter.org, expanding access to swim instruction is not just important—it’s urgent.
Grant funds will be used to reduce program fees for swim lessons integrated into the daily schedule at YMCA summer camps. The Y’s goal is to provide swim lessons for over 500 youth participating in our youth development programs this summer.
“At the Y, we believe that learning to swim is not a privilege—it’s a lifesaving skill,” said Jennifer Stoneking, Association Director of Aquatics. “This grant helps ensure that no child is left behind when it comes to water safety.”
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis is committed to fostering stronger, safer communities. Through partnerships like this one with the USA Swimming Foundation, we are working every day to help children build confidence, stay safe, and develop lifelong healthy habits.
Learn more about YMCA swim programs today.
