Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Water Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council Highlights Dolphin U’s Swim Lessons, Declares Water Safety Awareness
Summary
Councilmember Hutt and Dolphin U founder Calvin Thomas presented water-safety initiatives and a certificate recognizing Dolphin U’s outreach; councilmembers praised the program’s role in expanding swim access for youth and promoting life-saving lessons.
On June 24 the Los Angeles City Council recognized Dolphin U’s work expanding access to swim lessons and water-safety education.
Councilmember Hutt introduced the presentation, noting that Dolphin U has taught more than 10,000 swim lessons since 2020 and has reached more than 5,900 families through water-safety programs. "Water safety is meant to uplift communities with education, supervision and CPR training so every family, regardless of zip code, has access to tools and resources to stay safe in and around the water," Hutt said.
Calvin Thomas, who identified himself as founder and CEO of Dolphin U, told the council the nonprofit began with scholarships and neighborhood-based lessons and is committed to "drown-proofing L.A." by increasing school- and community-based swim programs ahead of the 2028 Olympics. "When we prioritize water safety education, we encourage swim lessons and water-safety year-round," Thomas said, noting nine drownings since June 1 in the region.
Councilmembers from multiple districts praised the program, noting recreational investments such as pool renovations and youth programming in their districts. Hutt presented a city certificate of recognition to Dolphin U and proclaimed Water Safety Awareness Month as part of the council’s agenda.
Rec and Parks staff and community partners were encouraged to connect with Dolphin U and other organizations to expand swim lessons, scholarships and outreach focused on communities with historically low pool access.
