Over $8,800 granted to Ashland YMCA for lessons for preschool and K-5 students
The Ashland Family YMCA received a grant for over $8,800 to support access to youth swimming lessons from the Chuck Butler Memorial Aquatics Endowment. The endowment was established at ACHF by Jeff and Alexi (Butler) McCullough in memory of local philanthropist Chuck Butler, and his enthusiasm for aquatic sports and water safety.
Drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1-4 (Center for Disease Control, June 2024). Basic swimming and water safety skills are a proven and effective way to prevent drowning. However, access to swimming lessons is a barrier.
To address barriers to swimming lessons, the Ashland YMCA piloted a program in 2024-2025 with their preschool students located at Walker and Helman elementary schools, and Talent elementary school. Children were bused during the school day to the YMCA to learn crucial water safety and swimming skills.
With over 80% of children in the YMCA’s Preschools and Afterschool Care programs receiving financial assistance, there was a clear need to continue and expand their swimming program to further increase access. The Butler Endowment grant funding allows the YMCA to grow the program, reaching currently enrolled preschoolers and expanding to their Afterschool Care programs. The Afterschool Care program provides a safe and enriching environment for K-5th graders after the school day ends.
Over 100 preschool and afterschool students are expected to participate in lessons. Funds will be used to operate the program, pay for bussing students from three preschool sites, and supply free swimsuits to all participants.
The kids loved choosing a swimsuit and were so excited to start swim lessons. We are so grateful for ACHF’s partnership for our preschool and afterschool programs! – Kelsey Rittenhouse, YMCA
Jeff and Alexi McCullough, pictured above, helped distribute swimsuits to preschool students at Walker and Helman Elementary schools before their first lessons. A visit to Talent Elementary is planned.
Photo courtesy of Ashland Family YMCA
