Grant awarded Gainesville 'how to swim' program

COLORADO SPRINGS, Col. - A Gainesville program that has taught 168 sixth-graders how to swim so far this fall has gotten a financial shot in the arm from a national organization.

The Gainesville Parks and Recreation Department is one of twelve organizations nationwide receiving grants of up $5,000 from the USA Swimming Foundation. The Gainesville program expects another 250 to complete the program before the school year ends.

Gainesville Parks and Recreation is recognized as a "Make a Splash Local Partner," one of over 140 providers across the nation committed to the USA Swimming Foundation's goal of helping provide the opportunity for every child in America learn to swim.

"Our Make a Splash Local Partners make a difference by taking tangible action to advance the Make a Splash mission," said Chris LaBianco, Chief Development Officer for the USA Swimming Foundation. "Local partners including Gainesville Parks and Recreation help us expand our reach across the country, and potentially save lives."

"We are extremely excited to be a part of the Make a Splash initiative," said Melvin Cooper, Director of Gainesville Parks and Recreation. "We've taught so many local children over the years to be safe in water, and with these grant monies can reach even more of those kids at risk."