The USA Swimming Foundation, the philanthropic arm of USA Swimming, announced that grant applications for swim lesson providers, as well as facilities and organizations offering competitive programs, are being accepted through Dec. 15, 2024.
USA Swimming Foundation Learn-to-Swim grants have been awarded since 2007, helping fund youth learn-to-swim programs across the country. Together with U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS), the program was expanded in 2021 to provide funding for adult learn-to-swim programs. In 2024, the USA Swimming Foundation awarded $830,000 to 162 youth and adult swim lesson providers in 40 states, adding to its historic total of more than $8 million in funding. The funds in 2024 helped an estimated 12,000 children and 2,500 adults nationwide gain access to swim lessons.
“Learning how to swim is a critically important life skill, and we are proud to support equitable funding opportunities to alleviate barriers to entry,” said USA Swimming Foundation Executive Director Elaine Calip.
The Community Impact Grant program was launched in 2020. Its aim is to provide access to competitive swimming for underrepresented swimming communities, support diverse coaches and uplift municipal community swim programs within USA Swimming clubs. In this program, USA Swimming member clubs receive $5,000 grants, eligible for annual renewal for up to three years. To date, 32 programs have received $390,000 in funds.
“We are committed to connecting, collaborating and broadening community access to USA Swimming in partnership with our clubs,” said USA Swimming Managing Director of Sport Development Joel Shinofield. “Community Impact Grants deliver financial support from the USA Swimming Foundation to clubs to teach water safety, build community-based programs and give more families a chance to participate in competitive swimming in underserved communities across the country.”
To be considered for the 2025 Youth Learn-to-Swim Grant, applicants must be an approved USA Swimming swim lesson provider in good standing before Dec. 1, provide a program narrative, and present a W-9 and proof of general liability insurance.
To be considered for the 2025 Adult Learn-to-Swim Grant, applicants must register as a USMS club or workout group, provide opportunities for eligible adults to participate in USMS programs upon readiness, provide a program narrative, and present a W-9 and proof of general liability insurance.
To apply for a Community Impact Grant, applicants must be current USA Swimming club members and present a W-9 at the time of application.
Applications will be accepted through Dec. 15, 2024. For more information, visit www.usaswimming.com.