From Parks to Pools, VCD Youth Discover the Importance of Safety and Fun

Some of the best lessons of summer are learned outside, and Victorious Community Development’s youth program made sure kids spent plenty of time under the sun.

Every Friday, the program gathered at Imerman Memorial Park, a community gem known for its trails, green space, and riverfront views. There, students learned teamwork through outdoor activities, explored nature up close, and experienced the mental and physical benefits of time outdoors.

Midweek traditions were just as exciting. On Wednesdays, the children visited the YMCA of Saginaw, where pool time was more than just fun… it was lifesaving. Alongside splashing and games, youth were taught swim safety skills, a critical part of the program that addressed a serious issue facing children nationwide.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 to 4, and the second leading cause for children ages 5 to 14. On average, about 11 people die each day in the United States from drowning, and more than 3,500 people die each year. Black youth, in particular, are disproportionately affected. Studies show that Black children ages 10–14 drown in swimming pools at rates seven times higher than their white peers.

By teaching swim safety at the YMCA, VCD gave youth practical knowledge that could prevent tragedy. Lessons included how to float, how to recognize signs of fatigue, and what to do if someone is struggling in the water. The goal was not only to build confidence but also to give kids the ability to act responsibly around water, skills they can carry for the rest of their lives.

The importance of these lessons came into focus during visits to Haithco Recreation Area, where the program gave youth the chance to swim and play at the beach. Thanks to their YMCA training, the kids could enjoy the water with greater confidence and awareness of how to stay safe.

For VCD, integrating swim safety into its summer program was about more than recreation. It was about addressing real disparities, protecting young lives, and equipping children with knowledge and safety skills that can empower both them and their families.