Clipping of a newspaper article includes a picture of a little boy in a pool with his dad behind him. He is looking toward a woman who has her back to the camera.

Journal News: Those with special needs learn lifesaving water skills through local YMCA program

The Great Miami Valley YMCA has recently expanded their adaptive water safety program, an effort to improve water safety for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The program serves to build awareness and basic survival skills around bodies of water. Though the program has exists for quite some time, Great Miami Valley YMCA recently expanded to offer this life-saving course at other locations.

The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities was instrumental in supporting this expansion. Mike Bremer, CEO and President of Great Miami Valley YMCA said “Several donors and community partners made this program possible, with the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities serving as the catalyst through a $5,000 grant to the Great Miami Valley YMCA. The adaptive swim lesson program has been overwhelmingly well received by families, and early enrollment clearly demonstrates both the demand for and the need for this service. In light of recent tragedies in our community, this program has the potential to save lives while providing families with greater peace of mind. We are deeply grateful to the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities for their leadership and support.”

BCBDD is incredibly grateful to have such conscientious and involved partners in our community.

You can read the Journal News article here.

To learn more about enrolling your child in this program, click here.