Hood River Parks + Rec Receives 2023 Grant Funding from the USA Swimming Foundation

Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District (District) was chosen as one of 35 adult programs from the USA Swimming Foundation’s nationwide network of swim lesson providers to receive grant funding for 2023. This is the fifth year that the District has received grant money from the USA Swimming Foundation and US Masters Swimming. This grant funding will allow Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District, in cooperation with Columbia Gorge Masters Swim Team, to offer four (4) free swim lessons during the month of August to any interested adult 18 years of age and older.

The USA Swimming Foundation vetted more than 345 applications through a competitive annual review process and chose 69 youth and 35 adult programs to receive funding.

“We are thrilled to be chosen for this grant,” said Marcie Wily, District Assistant Director. “The money we received will be put toward our year-end goal of graduating 50 adults from our learn to swim program.”  

Adult swimmers of all ability levels are welcome to participate in the program – from the complete beginner with possible fear of the water, to the swimmer who wants to master the basic strokes and breathing, to the more advanced swimmer who would like to improve stroke technique.  The teaching will be tailored to the student’s comfort and ability level with a low teacher to student ratio.

Four class sessions will be offered, and they are free. Participants are encouraged to attend all five class sessions. Classes will be offered on the following days from 6:00 -7:00pm:

·         Tuesday, August 1

·         Thursday, August 3

·         Tuesday, August 8

·         Thursday, August 10

Pre-registration is required. You can register for the program in person at the aquatic center, or by calling 541-386-1303. Columbia Gorge Masters will provide volunteer instructors under the direction of aquatic center staff.  Columbia Gorge Masters practices Monday through Friday from 6:00-7:30am. More information on Columbia Gorge Masters can be found at www.hrvst.org.