San Diego Nonprofit Hosts Community Swimathon & Pool Party

May 13, 2026

On May 2nd, the San Diego-based nonprofit Our Genetic Legacy organized a Community Swimathon and Pool Party at the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA with the dual purpose of building youth confidence in water activities and promoting water safety awareness. The initiative goes beyond basic swimming instruction by providing participants access to advanced aquatic opportunities including scuba diving certification, underwater robotics, marine science studies, underwater archaeology, and a summer educational trip to Florida. Multiple community organizations collaborated on the event, including the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA, Paddle for Peace, and the Elementary Institute of Science.

Who is affected

Youth participants in Our Genetic Legacy programs
Our Genetic Legacy (OGL) nonprofit organization
Jackie Robinson Family YMCA
Paddle for Peace
Elementary Institute of Science
Black Star Water Polo (specifically Asante, coach)
So Cal Black Scuba Divers and Snorkelers Association (Chuck and Arwen)
Coastal Defenders (Coach Jackson)

What action is being taken

Our Genetic Legacy is introducing students to pathways in scuba certification, underwater robotics, marine science, underwater archaeology, and a summer educational expedition to Florida
OGL youth are receiving swim coaching from Asante of Black Star Water Polo
OGL youth are receiving scuba training from Chuck and Arwen of So Cal Black Scuba Divers and Snorkelers Association
Coach Jackson of Coastal Defenders is providing additional support

Why it matters

This program matters because it transforms swimming from a basic safety skill into a gateway for broader educational and career opportunities for youth. By connecting water confidence with pathways to marine science, underwater archaeology, robotics, and scuba certification, the initiative opens doors to lifelong learning and professional possibilities that participants might not otherwise encounter. The program also addresses water safety awareness, which is particularly important for underserved communities.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint