Testimonials
Cohort #1 August 2022
“The youngest kids said that learning to float was what they liked best! It made them feel more comfortable in the water. They all liked the fact that they were able to watch their whole family learn to swim together.” - Family of 7
Cohort #2 October 2022
“I could not swim at all. I now swim with confidence. I am no longer afraid of the water. The children have all become pretty decent swimmers. One of them tried out for the swim team and was picked.” - Family of 6
Cohort #3 January 2023
“Many of us learned how to tread water and become comfortable jumping in the deep end!! I myself overcame the fear of jumping in the deep end. We learned our bodies are meant to float with all the water we have inside!! We also learned safety for helping those who are drowning, the dos and don’ts. Swimming is something every family should learn to do together. The sooner, the better." - Family of 7
Cohort #4 February 2023
“Initiatives such as Urban Dippers are vital to our community, offering women an avenue to forge connections while mastering swimming skills. Participating in this program not only equipped me with
swimming abilities but also opened doors to establish a community with other women, with whom I have
continued to practice even after the program’s conclusion. The swimming skills I acquired through this program
not only enriched my personal life, but it has also allowed me to confidently engage in pool activities with my
children while solidifying our communal bond through shared experiences and ongoing support.”
- Angeline Ewing, 50
Cohort #5 April 2023
“I’m Chassitti Clark, and at the age of 33, I triumphed over my fear of swimming, all thanks to the invaluable swim lessons offered by the YMCA and Becki Friday. This opportunity has been a source of immense gratitude for me, not only for teaching me how to swim but also for bringing boundless joy into my life. Now, I can confidently dive into the water and enjoy the experience of swimming."
Cohort #6 June 2023
“The swimming course was an absolutely incredible opportunity to learn about water safety with my son. The instructors were knowledgeable and patient, which helped students with fears re: water. This
initiative is wonderful and needed in our community.”
- Linda Vakunta, 36
Cohort #7 September 2023
“We found the class immensely educational and enjoyable. Witnessing my son’s
remarkable transformation, he has flourished with newfound confidence in the water now and know how to be safe. I had a fear of water that I was able to overcome.”
- Shalory Sherman, 38
Cohort #8 November 2023
“It was great! We are all comfortable in the water now. We are all jumping off the diving board
and swimming!”
- Tia Malone, 43
Cohort #9 January 2024
"Joining the cohort I was terrified of getting to the deep end. The first thing I learned was that we drown by panicking. We learned basic water safety skills that made me comfortable enough to make it into the deep end. Growing up, I was not able to be put into some classes due to lack of funds. As an adult, I also experience a lack of funds to put myself and my family into swim classes. Swimming is a life skill that everyone should have. I am blessed that not only myself, but my children can swim. This class should be offered to all those in need of the skill. I’m again grateful for this opportunity because it’s literally a lifesaver."
