Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center expands free swim lessons for Orange County residents

In recognition of International Water Safety Day and Water Safety Month, Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center has expanded its collaboration with the Florida Department of Health in Orange County to offer free swim lessons to local residents. 

This year’s program also receives new support from Truist Foundation, which is helping families not only access lessons but also get to them.

The lessons are part of the Every Child a Swimmer initiative, aimed at children ages 6 months to 12 years. Sessions are underway and continue throughout the summer. Ride-share vouchers are now available to participants thanks to a grant from Truist Foundation, which has already led to 100% attendance among families using the service, the release said.

With drowning cited by the Florida Department of Health as the leading cause of preventable death among children ages 1 to 4, the need for these programs is urgent.

“Teaching others to swim, especially children, is at the core of what we do,” said RAFC Executive Director Mike Miller in the release. “Now thanks to Truist Foundation and its transportation grant, we’re seeing the number of participants increase dramatically.”

The program also includes lifeguard and water safety instructor training, part of RAFC’s broader mission to build a safer, more water-savvy community.