Drowning Remains a Top Cause of Accidental Death Among Young Children

Rockland YMCA is Doing Their Part to Combat These Preventable Deaths

The Rockland YMCA has announced the launch of a new summer swim lesson program dedicated to early childhood water safety. Made possible through funding from the New York State Alliance of YMCAs, Step Into Swim, and the Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation (“Stewie the Duck”), the program will provide free swim lessons to Head Start children ages 0–5 throughout Rockland County.

Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death among young children, making early access to swim instruction and water safety education critical. The Rockland YMCA is committed to water safety and runs a comprehensive swim program year-round.  The Rockland YMCA has introduced thousands of children to the water in a safe, supportive environment, building foundational skills. 

The Rockland YMCA is partnering with Head Start of Rockland, Inc., and the YMCA Courthouse programs on the initiative. Head Start children throughout Rockland County are eligible to participate in up to three swim lesson sessions at no cost. 

“For more than a decade, we have partnered with the Nyack Head Start program offering sports programs in our facility several times a week,” commented Phil Donnelly, CEO, Rockland County YMCA.  “When we received this generous funding, we saw an opportunity to impact our community partners and also foster one of our core beliefs in the importance of water safety.  We can’t wait to teach the Head Start kids to swim.”

“Partnering with the Rockland YMCA is a game-changer for our Head Start of Rockland, Inc. children and families,” said Vernex Harding of Head Start. “Through free swim lessons, we’re not just teaching water safety—we’re building confidence, creating joyful memories, and equipping our kids with skills that will serve them for a lifetime. Together, we’re opening doors to new possibilities, one splash at a time.”

All sessions will be led by certified YMCA swim instructors trained in both water safety and early childhood development. Lessons will be scheduled with flexibility to accommodate working families, and supplemental educational materials will be provided to support learning beyond the pool.

This initiative reflects the Rockland YMCA’s enduring commitment to youth development, water safety, healthy living, and community responsibility. By expanding access to early swim education, the YMCA is making a meaningful step toward preventing childhood drowning.