Tidelines

At the recent SIPOA Annual Meeting, the president of SIPOA talked about the success of “Be Water Wise”, the educational program of Waterproof Inc., a 501(c)(3) that provides free water safety and swim lessons to first graders from Johns Island. This program, now in its 15th year, is supported by private donations and is endorsed by the Charleston County School District. If you are looking for a meaningful way to volunteer in our community, consider this worthwhile program.

As approved by SIPOA, the Lake House outdoor pool is again the site for our annual “Be Water Wise” nine-day water safety and swim lessons program. Staffed by Seabrookers who volunteer their time and enthusiasm, last year 16 swim coaches and three deck helpers committed their mornings to provide free swim lessons to 47 children.

More volunteers are needed! This year, with the expansion of Angel Oak Elementary School, we plan to teach 75 first-grade students to swim, which requires additional swim coaches. If you are a competent swimmer, we will equip you with the skills to teach young children. The program will run from May 11 – 21, 2026, for nine weekday mornings, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Lake House outdoor pool.

Volunteers complete a three-hour online, age-specific, swim coaching certification course and a Youth Protection two-hour certification course. Each volunteer submits to a Charleston County Schools background check and must hold or obtain CPR/AED certification. Two character references are required. Waterproof, Inc. will reimburse all related expenses.

Our coaches not only provide lifesaving skills to children who otherwise would not have access to such education, but also enrich their own lives with joy and satisfaction from the endeavor.

To volunteer, contact Derek Fyfe at derekfyfe2014@gmail.com or text at 404-889-1690.

-Submitted by Derek Fyfe for Waterproof, Inc.