Down Syndrome Association of Delaware seeking paid lifeguard and 15 volunteers for iCan Swim Camp

The iCanSwim program for Down Syndrome of Delaware is looking for a lifeguard

The Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSADE) is seeking a paid lifeguard and 15 volunteers to assist with this year’s iCan Swim camp, sponsored by DSADE. iCan Swim is a program of iCan Shine, a nonprofit organization that provides quality recreational programs for individuals with disabilities. The camp focuses on teaching individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities to learn to swim and other basic water safety skills.

“We are looking for any individual trained and certified as a lifeguard, age 18 and over,” Mary Sweeney of the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware, said. “We are also looking for volunteers for this program. Those who would like to participate in the camp must be at least 15 years old unless accompanied by an adult and able to attend each of the five days of camp”

Camps are scheduled for 45 minutes for the 3–7-year-old session and 60 minutes for the other sessions. These sessions include 15 minutes of training as well as debriefing. There is also a Sunday orientation. Any volunteer must also be able to provide physical, emotional and motivational support to their assigned swimmer be able to swim and be comfortable in the water.

“This is a great way to get some exercise and cool off in a pool for a great cause,” Sweeney said.

iCan Swim is scheduled to take place July 22-26, 2024, at the John C. Charlton School. 278 Sorghum Mill Rd., Camden Wyoming, DE 19934. The program is designed to help people achieve their aquatic goals and learn valuable water safety skills during the weeklong program. Every participant’s safety in class is of utmost importance, so a trained and certified, paid lifeguard is required to be on site at all times during the course of the camp, and a 1:1 ratio of volunteers to participants.

Down Syndrome Association of Delaware is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support families, promote community involvement, and encourage a lifetime of opportunities for people with Down syndrome. Learn more at dsadelaware.org  or https://www.facebook.com/dsadelaware.