The Winter Break Swim Program, which is a partnership between Hickory Parks and Recreation and the Hickory Foundation YMCA, worked with about 40 Kindergarten to 6^th graders during the December 27 - December 30 program at the YMCA's indoor pool. 

YMCA aquatic instructors taught youth basic swim skills and water safety.

"There was a remarkable improvement over four days from children that were very afraid of the water," said Hickory Foundation YMCA Executive Director Angela Chapman.  "By the third or fourth day, they were comfortably getting in the water,"

"This was a great opportunity and our instructors had a great time teaching the kids," said Hickory Foundation YMCA Aquatic Director Leighann Stone.  "I don't think I saw one child leave without a smile on their face and over the four days they learned a lot of water safety skills as well as swimming skills."

The Easter Break Swim Program that was held in April and along with the Winter Break Swim Program helped more than 100 youth learn basic swim skills and water safety.

"We have had good participation with the swim program and we plan to continue the partnership with the Hickory Foundation YMCA to provide an Easter Swim Program again this year," said Hickory Parks and Recreation Director Mack McLeod.  "This is one of the many ways we work together with fellow organizations to provide strong, quality programs to citizens in our community."

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