Pasadena Aquatics Center Dives Into Water Safety Campaign

The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center will transform its pools into a powerful demonstration of community solidarity on May 15, as participants collectively tread water to highlight drowning prevention efforts. The first annual “Treading for Water Safety” event marks the center’s 35th anniversary of providing life-saving water education in Pasadena.

“Treading water is a powerful metaphor. Many people associate it with struggle, just trying to stay afloat. But when done together, it symbolizes resilience, unity, and shared purpose,” said Melanie Sauer of the RBAC. “We want to show that water safety is not just an individual skill; it’s a community responsibility.”

Through its partnership with Pasadena Unified School District, the center has provided free swim lessons to more than 27,000 third-grade students. Each student receives 15 consecutive swim lessons during the school day, along with swimsuits, goggles, towels, dry/wet bags, and a water safety education workbook.

Drowning remains the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among California children aged 1-4, according to research cited in the event materials. From 2017-2021, 4,166 drowning incidents occurred among children aged 1-4 in California, with 65% being pool-related.

“We treat water safety with urgency and care. Drowning is preventable,” said Sauer. “Starting young, educating families, and making lessons accessible regardless of age, income, or background.” The center’s comprehensive programming includes swim instruction, CPR education, lifeguard training, community building activities, competitive programs, and partnerships with other local community organizations.

The RBAC is also working to address significant racial disparities in swim education. Studies from Northwestern University News show that 26% of Black parents and 32% of Latino parents report they never learned to swim, a disadvantage often passed to the next generation.

“We recognize that historical inequities, cultural barriers, and access issues have created deep gaps, and we’re committed to changing that,” Sauer explained. “Our programs are designed to meet everyone where they are with our friendly instructors, financial assistance program, bilingual staff, and inclusive outreach.”

The impact of these programs extends beyond basic swim skills. “Students who were once afraid of the water are now finding confidence in the pool, and it shows,” Sauer noted. “We’ve even seen former participants return as lifeguards, instructors, and staff members, giving back to the very program that shaped them.”

The May 15 event will feature diverse participation options. Third-grade Water Safety Program students will tread alongside Paralympian Jamal Hill, while water fitness classes will host a special 35-minute “move and groove” treading session set to music. Other activities include 35 dives with the diving team, 35 sprints with swim teams, or 35 uninterrupted minutes of treading with water polo athletes.

As a nonprofit organization, the RBAC relies heavily on donor support, grants, and fundraising to sustain its programs. “Fees alone don’t cover the cost of the programs we provide,” emphasized Sauer. The center employs over 260 people and has secured backing for the May event from several partners.

“We are grateful to the partners and donors who have joined in to support the RBAC’s efforts this May; like Citizens Business Bank, Emily Allen, Out-Fit, and a gift in memory of Lulu & Leo Krim, as well as the City of Pasadena, whose support for Treading with the RBAC is helping us shine a spotlight on water safety and expand our impact where it’s needed most,” said Sauer. The center also acknowledged LA84 as a vital partner in sustaining and growing their water safety programming.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo proclaimed May as National Water Safety Month in 2024, highlighting the city’s commitment to this issue. The City of Pasadena and RBAC offer free swim lessons through both Parks & Recreation Department programs and the third-grade outreach via PUSD.

“I think it’s crucial to emphasize that water safety is a lifelong skill that can transform lives and save them. This isn’t just a summer activity, especially in California,” Sauer added.

Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, 360 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 564-0330. https://rosebowlaquatics.org