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�Making Waves� program provides free swim lessons for youth in need

May 12 , 2005 by Editor

The Mesa Parks and Recreation "Making Waves" program provides free lessons in swimming and water safety for all Mesa youth in need, and will be conducting on-site registration for this summer beginning May 28.

Funded through donations from businesses and individuals within the community, "Making Waves" has provided thousands of low-income Mesa families and children with basic swim lesson instruction, as well as participation in competitive swimming programs, since its inception in 1999.

"Children who know how to swim are less likely to become victims of a drowning incident," says Aquatics Coordinator Linda Thompson. "Saving lives is ultimately what �Making Waves� is all about."

Program registration for "Making Waves" will be held on site at three Mesa public pools: Carson Pool, 525 N. Westwood; Mesa Jr. High Pool, 828 E. Broadway; and Powell Pool, 855 W. 8th Avenue. Registration will be conducted at all three sites on May 28, June 11, June 25 and July 9.

Proof of income or federal cash assistance and Mesa residency is required for registration and verification of need.

More than 800 swim lesson and competitive scholarships were awarded in 2004, valued at nearly $14,000. Program sponsors included Southwest Ambulance, the Mesa HoHoKam Foundation, the Sertoma Club of Mesa, Pebble Technology Inc., Bill Flowers Photography and the East Valley Sertoma Club.

For more information about the program, or to become a sponsor, those interested should call (480) 644-4950 or visit www.cityofmesa.org/parksrec.