501(c)(3) nonprofit · water safety for every child
Every child deserves to learn to swim — and come home safe.
Swim Safe Start Strong connects families with qualified swim instructors and programs, helps cover the cost of lessons through scholarships, and spreads water-safety knowledge that prevents drowning.
Water safety education and access to swim instruction are two of the most effective ways families can help prevent drowning.
What we do
We're the bridge, not the pool.
Swim Safe Start Strong does not teach swim lessons. We connect, fund, and educate — so families can find the right instructor and afford to get their kids in the water.
Connect families to instructors
A searchable directory of community swim instructors and programs, organized so families can find options that fit their needs.
Fund scholarships
We raise funds to help offset the cost of swim lessons for families who need support.
Teach water safety
Free education and resources on drowning prevention for children, parents, and caregivers.
Partner with communities
We work alongside pools, instructors, schools, and local organizations to expand access together.
Our promise
"No child should be denied lifesaving swim education because of where they live or what their family can afford."
Our mission
Access to lifesaving swim education, for every child.
Swim Safe Start Strong exists to ensure every child has access to lifesaving swim education by connecting families with qualified swim instructors, expanding access through scholarships and community partnerships, and promoting water safety education that empowers children, families, and communities to prevent drowning.
Read our full storyOur vision
"A future where every child in America has access to lifesaving swim education and every community is equipped with the knowledge and resources to prevent drowning."
How it works
Three simple steps to get started.
Tell us what you need
Share your child's age, location, and any scheduling or financial needs through our simple online request form.
We help you find options
Our team shares information on qualified local instructors and programs, and scholarship opportunities where available.
Your family chooses
You connect directly with the instructor or program that's the best fit — you're always in control of the decision.
How our referrals work
Swim Safe Start Strong shares informational listings and referrals to help families find swim instructors and programs in their community. We do not employ, supervise, endorse, guarantee, or directly provide swim lessons. Families are responsible for vetting and selecting any instructor or program, including checking credentials, safety practices, and references before enrolling.
Help a child learn to swim
Your gift helps cover the cost of lifesaving lessons.
Scholarship funding depends entirely on community support. Every contribution helps us connect more families with qualified instruction and safety education.