Swim to Work YMCA of Central Virginia Lynchburg Employment Program

The YMCA of Central Virginia, Iron Lives and Lynchburg City Schools have joined forces to launch "Swim to Work," a six-week work readiness and training program that aims to take high school students (ages 15 and up) through the process of becoming certified lifeguards. The YMCA will absorb all the required certification and training costs creating an equitable pathway to gainful employment for the students.

After the hands-on six-week training course, participants will complete the lifeguard certification process. Course training materials include CPR, First Aid, AED, and water safety. Additionally, students will gain valuable life skills while being mentored by a certified lifeguard and experienced trainer. After the students complete the process, they will be ready to apply for a lifeguard job anywhere.

In addition to this program being "no-cost" for participants and their families, the Y and Lynchburg City Schools offer transportation to and from the program, which will take place at the Downtown YMCA.

Participants will also receive a free 3 month summer teen membership at the YMCA as part of the benefits.

WHAT'S INVOLVED?

After you complete the required swim test, you will work with a certified Swim Instructor to learn the necessary strokes to pass the swim competency test associated with the lifeguard and swim instructor certification. Additional, you will work on building stamina, endurance, and other skills associated with the tests.

Upon completing the test, you may be offered employment with the YMCA of Central Virginia. However, the certification is good for any lifeguard employment. Those who do not complete the program will be offered the necessary assistance to complete the test and other YMCA employment.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Registering is simple! Just stop by the Downtown YMCA, and let one of our helpful guest services team members you'd like to register for "Swim to Work."

Twelve students are selected through the Lynchburg City Schools administration. 

If you have any additional questions, comments, or Inquiries, please contact Tereika Grooms, Director of Teen Programming and Outreach by email or phone for additional information. 

PROGRAMS ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE THROUGH THE FOLLOWING LCS SCHOOLS

Fort Hill Community School

  • Downtown YMCA
  • April 8th - May 15th
  • 3:30pm - 5:30pm

E.C. Glass High School

  • Downtown YMCA
  • April 8th - May 15th
  • 3:30pm - 5:30pm

Heritage High School

  • Downtown YMCA
  • April 8th - May 15th
  • 3:30pm - 5:30pm

Orientation for all:

  • Downtown YMCA
  • March 19th, 2024
  • 3:30pm - 6pm

Transportation, healthy afternoon snack, and goggles are provided at no charge for those in need.


TEEN CENTER CALENDAR

Be sure to add all of our upcoming events to your calendar!