In a world where access to aquatic activities remains somewhat of a privilege for many, a few Indianapolis organizations are working tirelessly to break down barriers and provide opportunities for Black and Brown youth to explore the many wonders of the underwater world.
According to recent studies, minority communities often face significant disparities in access to swimming lessons and aquatic activities, potentially leading to higher rates of drowning incidents. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that minority youth drown at a rate 7.5 times higher than their white counterparts. The YMCA also reports that 64% of Black children cannot swim, while only 40% of white children cannot swim.
Despite these alarming statistics, three organizations, Sea Scope, Inc., Friends of the White River, and Youth Empowered, Inc., are making waves in their communities by exposing minority children to aquatic activities and empowering them to become champions of the marine environment.
Sea Scope is on a mission to create a new generation of ocean explorers and activists. Led by founder and CEO Dr. Allyson Brown, Sea Scope aims to increase diversity in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and aquatics by providing comprehensive programs that not only teach essential water safety skills, but also foster a deep connection with the marine world. Through partnerships with local community centers, including Wheeler Dowe Boys and Girls Club and St. Florian Center, Sea Scope has served over 380 youth in Marion County over the last four years.
“Drowning is the second-leading cause of death among children,” Brown told the Indianapolis Recorder. “At Sea Scope, we are teaching children how to save themselves and so much more.”
Participants not only gain the skills to be safe in and around water but also develop a passion for STEM, marine exploration and conservation.
Friends of the White River, or simply “Friends,” also focuses on aquatics and conservation in Indy. Since the 1980s, the organization has dedicated itself to preserving and protecting the White River in Indiana while also promoting environmental education and stewardship among youth. Today, through various programs and new initiatives, Friends provides opportunities for minority children to engage with their local waterways and learn about the importance of conservation.
“Friends wants to help people break down those barriers and create equitable access,” said Kay Hawthorne, environmental justice director of Friends of the White River.
From river clean-up events to educational workshops, Friends empowers youth to become advocates for their community and the environment. By instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in their natural surroundings, Friends of the White River is fostering a new generation of environmental leaders.
Like Friends, Youth Empowered, Inc. is cultivating a new era of environmental champions. The organization focuses on empowering minority youth, as the name implies, through education, mentorship and exposure to diverse experiences. Recognizing the importance of aquatics in building confidence and life skills, Youth Empowered partners with local swimming pools and community organizations to offer swimming lessons and water safety training to underserved communities.
Board of Directors President of Youth Empowered Lauren Warfield spoke about the importance of exposure to aquatics. “It is little things that have allowed our youth to come into bigger experiences that they don’t normally get on a regular basis,” Warfield said.
By breaking down cultural barriers and providing access to aquatic activities, Youth Empowered is not only saving lives but also opening doors to new opportunities for minority children. Through success…
This article was originally published by a indianapolisrecorder.com . Read the Original article here. .