What We Do
“Receiving a swimming scholarship to BBAF has been a true blessing for our family…Through BBAF’s program, Tristan has gained incredible confidence in the water while having fun and developing essential swimming skills. The supportive instructors and positive environment have made a world of difference in his growth and comfort in the pool.”
-Rosalia, parent of 10-year-old BBAF participant
Our Mission
Beyond Barriers Athletic Foundation promotes healthy lifestyles, improves personal safety, and adds structure for lifelong achievement by providing scholarships for aquatic programs to underserved youth.
About
In 2012, a group of dedicated swimmers formed BBAF to provide safety, health, and lifestyle changes to the young underserved members of our communities. BBAF gives aquatic scholarships for swim lessons, lifeguard training, water polo, and recreational opportunities through pools and programs in our neighborhoods. BBAF endeavors to save lives and change lives through aquatics.
Two children drown every day
Swim lessons reduce the risk of drowning by 88%
Children in minority communities have disproportionately no to low swimming ability
According to USA Swimming Foundation, two-thirds of African-American children, nearly half of Latino children, and four in ten white children have little to no swimming ability. Nearly eight in ten children from households earning less than $50,000 per year have little to no swimming ability. The families BBAF serves need access to a local pool and ease of funding for these vital lessons for the safety, health, and well-being of their children.
BBAF started with one partner provider at a local pool in East Menlo Park serving just under 100 children. In 2019, BBAF provided for 9,100 swim lessons, serving 2,000 children. In addition, BBAF subsidized 1,200 other aquatic lessons. During the 2020 pandemic year, BBAF was able to serve 300 children, providing for 1,200 swim lessons and over 700 hours of other aquatic, physical, and wellness activities.
Since inception, BBAF has grown considerably, impacting 10,600 children, subsidizing 44,500 swim lessons and 9,500 hours of other aquatic activities.
“I want to say thank you, because my life would not be as amazing without swimming. It makes my school life better; it makes my whole life better because of this opportunity.”
— Katelyn, BBAF Swimmer
What We’ve Achieved
10,600 children impacted
10+ pool venues supported
44,500 swim lessons subsidized
9,500 hours of other aquatic activities subsidized