The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in children under 12. At the Y, we believe a child's safety in and around water should never be left to chance. Providing free instruction, the Y gives children at greatest risk – primarily those of minority and low-income households - the opportunity to learn basic water safety and swimming skills. With the support of our neighbors, we're determined to prevent childhood drowning in our community.

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte provided free swim lessons to more than 600 children in 2010. The cost to provide four weeks of water safety and swim instruction is $50 per child. Every dollar helps the Y provide free swim lessons to a child at risk of accidental death by drowning.

For more information, contact Laura Ferguson at (704) 716-6336.