New York City is known for its vibrant culture, iconic skyline, and, lest we forget, its waters. Yet, the very element that connects communities also poses significant risks, particularly for those who lack the knowledge and skills to navigate it safely. The recent statistics reveal a troubling trend: drownings in NYC have reached their highest numbers since 2019. This sobering reality underscores the necessity for preventative measures and community initiatives aimed at water safety education.
As summer approaches, the urgency to address this issue intensifies. A group of dedicated individuals, led by former Division 1 swimmer Kaitlin Krause, has championed a unique solution through a non-profit organization named Rising Tide Effect. Founded in 2020, Rising Tide Effect focuses on equipping underserved and at-risk communities with vital swimming skills and water safety education. This proactive approach is not merely about preventing accidents; it’s about fostering a culture where water becomes a source of healing and enjoyment rather than fear and tragedy.
A Call to Action: Empowering Communities
At a recent gathering in downtown Manhattan, rising leaders in water safety, including NYC’s First Deputy Parks Commissioner, Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, and Queens Council Member Shekar Krishnan, came together to support this initiative. Krause passionately articulated the urgent need for equitable access to water safety resources, stating, “The water is something that everybody in this room has a connection with—but the reality is that most people don’t have that.” This sentiment rings true in many marginalized communities where access to public pools and swimming lessons is limited or entirely absent.
Rising Tide Effect aims to bridge this critical gap, focusing on increasing access for those most vulnerable. The organization not only teaches swimming but also emphasizes awareness and risk recognition—skills essential for navigating aquatic environments safely. As Krause noting, “If you can spot a rip current and know the risks associated with it, you’re far less likely to encounter an unfortunate event.” Thus, the initiative is about much more than swimming; it’s about creating a relationship with water that empowers individuals rather than intimidates them.
Creating Lifelines: Programs that Make a Difference
One of Rising Tide Effect’s innovative campaigns is “Water Wise – Respect the Rip.” This initiative aims to educate the public about water safety through visible outreach, including advertisements on public transport s vying to reach NYC’s diverse communities. Ultimately, these efforts are grounded in a simple yet profound mission: to save lives and promote confidence within aquatic spaces.
A successful pilot program launched at the Rockaway Hotel utilized the hotel’s pool to address local drowning rates, a community concern that can no longer be ignored. This program was so successful that it has expanded to cover multiple locations across the five boroughs, providing swimming lessons and safety education to youths from various backgrounds. The vice chair of Rising Tide Effect, Michi Jigarjian, highlights the tremendous community need reflected in these statistics, stating, “We were the only operating pool in our area—and our goal was to provide an avenue for swimming education.”
By offering varied programs, Rising Tide Effect has started to shift the narrative around water in underrepresented communities. Board chair Jon-Paul Rorech highlights the tragedy of accidental drownings and the intimidation many young people feel about swimming. “Our program transforms that fear and shame into joy and confidence,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of reorienting youths’ perceptions of their abilities in the water.
Building Networks of Support and Advocacy
Local leaders like Council Member Krishnan have also recognized the importance of accessible swimming facilities, advocating for legislation that promotes water safety education and the establishment of public swimming pools in neighborhoods like Jackson Heights. His efforts have led to collaborations between local schools and community organizations, ensuring that children have opportunities to learn to swim, particularly amid a rising tide of summer swimming activities.
In addition to legislative efforts, community-driven fundraising events, like the upcoming “Poolside Party at the Rockaway Hotel,” showcase how local businesses and residents are coming together to support these essential programs. They serve not just as a means of fundraising but also as community-building opportunities, rallying around the shared goal of eliminating drowning incidents through better education and empowerment.
This grassroots movement sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of water safety: the joy and empowerment it can bring when individuals feel equipped to enjoy aquatic spaces rather than live in fear of them. Rising Tide Effect exemplifies how strategic community engagement and education can make a tangible difference in saving lives and promoting healthy lifestyles. The message is clear: when we invest in our communities’ water safety education, we cultivate not just safer environments but also a sense of belonging and empowerment that enriches lives beyond the water’s edge.
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