Berkshire County launches Safe Swim Initiative for Spring Break

PITTSFIELD, Mass. (NEWS10)-- As students begin Spring Break at Pittsfield schools, a group of collaborators created a safe swim initiative for students. The program, Stop Youth Drowning: Safe Swim Berkshire Initiative, will teach middle and high school students essential water safety skills starting Monday until April 25.

The Safe Swim Berkshire Initiative was started in response to the rise of youth drownings in the county. According to organizers, the Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center (GABCC), the Berkshire Family YMCA (BFYMCA), Dulye & Co., and Pittsfield Public Schools, the program aims to address an increase in youth drownings in Berkshire County by providing essential water safety skills and knowledge.

Linda Dulye, a business owner who is paying for the program, said the program was designed to build confidence and competence in and around water for young people, as well as provide opportunities for leadership and peer advocacy in safety.

"I approached leaders at the Y (YMCA) and Gladys Allen Center with an idea to help our community’s youth build confidence and competence around water," states Dulye, who is underwriting pilot costs. "These life-saving skills give young people the chance to grow as leaders and they can pave the way as peer advocates for safety for others to shed fears and learn to swim."

According to organizers, in 2024, a middle school student drowned during a school trip. The program will focus on safety but also skill-building and youth development.

The weekday lessons will take place at both the BFYMCA and the GABCC. Instructors include community residents with experience in swim instruction, Jennifer Roccabruna, a physical education teacher and aquatic directors.

The Stop Youth Drowning: Berkshire Initiative seeks to expand beyond the pilot program to reach more youth and remove barriers to water safety education. The organizers are inviting local leaders and philanthropists to support the initiative.

Students will receive one-on-one instruction, swim gear, towels, lunch and transportation. At the end of the program on April 25, Pittsfield Mayor Peter Marchetti will award students in an award ceremony.

Individuals interested in getting involved can contact Jennifer Roccabruna at jroccabruna2@pittsfield.net.