As summer approaches, an alarming trend in New York City looms over its beaches and public pools: an unprecedented spike in accidental drownings, the highest recorded since 2019. This issue has become all too familiar, claiming lives that could easily be saved through effective advocacy and education. In response to this concerning reality, a passionate group of advocates has stepped forward to address this gap in water safety and create a proactive solution. Enter Rising Tide Effect, a dynamic non-profit founded by former Division 1 swimmer Kaitlin Krause that aims to bridge the chasm between New Yorkers and the vital skill of swimming.
Krause’s organization emerged in 2020, driven by the vision of fostering aquatic safety for underserved communities. At a recent gathering in downtown Manhattan, influential figures such as NYC’s First Deputy Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa and Queens Council Member Shekar Krishnan converged to rally support for this invaluable initiative. With the stakes as high as “a matter of life and death,” as Krause put it, it is evident that this movement is more than just a campaign; it is a desperate plea for change.
Breaking Down Barriers
The stark reality is that many communities lack access to essential water safety education, creating a dangerous divide in skill and knowledge. “Most people don’t have that connection with water,” Krause emphasized, voicing a sentiment that resonates deeply in places where families lack the means for swim lessons or safe access to pools. This disconnect puts countless lives at risk, particularly among youth who may not understand the various dangers that lurk in the water, including rip currents.
Rising Tide Effect is not merely about teaching how to swim; it’s a holistic approach to dismantling societal barriers that prevent equitable access to aquatic safety. Krause highlights the transformative nature of the organization’s programming, where students can first step into a pool or experience the ocean’s embrace. Witnessing children surf for the first time creates a unique sense of joy and accomplishment, demonstrating that the water is not merely a recreational space, but an essential element of healing and personal growth.
Empowering Through Knowledge
In an age where information is readily available, it is shocking that many youths lack fundamental knowledge about water safety. Krause pointed out that understanding how to identify and respond to dangers like rip currents is a skill that can save lives. Without education, young swimmers are left to navigate the waters blindly, increasing their vulnerability and risking tragic outcomes.
This summer, Rising Tide Effect is set to launch an awareness campaign titled “Water Wise – Respect the Rip.” The campaign will feature informative messaging prominently displayed on buses, subways, and ferries, visually bridging the need for water knowledge with everyday commuters. Notably, the campaign is backed by local businesses and community leaders who recognize the importance of this initiative in fostering a culture of safety.
Community Collaboration for Lasting Change
The organization has already made palpable strides in addressing the troubling statistics around drowning in the Rockaways, where community leaders like Michi Jigarjian have taken an active role in creating a safe environment for residents. Their pilot program at the Rockaway Hotel opened crucial conversations about how local businesses can contribute to community safety by harnessing their facilities for educational purposes.
Rising Tide Effect has expanded its reach, providing six different programs across four locations, making its life-saving services accessible to youths from all boroughs. Board Chair Jon-Paul Rorech articulated a shared vision; the goal extends beyond preventing drownings. It’s about empowering youth to overcome fears and transform vulnerabilities into confidence and self-love. Rorech’s insight underscores the notion that water safety education is an integral part of developing a holistic sense of self for teenagers, removing the stigma associated with not knowing how to swim.
Anecdotes of Change
The poignant stories of teens learning to swim for the first time capture the essence of Rising Tide Effect’s mission. Overcoming the fear and shame of admitting a lack of swimming skills, many youths have transcended this barrier, finding joy and community in their newfound abilities. Council Member Krishnan shared the groundbreaking initiative in Jackson Heights, where securing access to private pools for swim lessons is positively impacting local youth’s relationship with water. His advocacy for continued water safety legislation further emphasizes the need for systemic support to ensure safe swimming environments across all neighborhoods.
As the summer months draw near, the energy surrounding Rising Tide Effect’s endeavors is palpable. Through education, advocacy, and community collaboration, they are not just working to keep New Yorkers safe but are also fostering a generation that embraces the water with the respect and joy it rightfully deserves.