Meet Emily,
Adapted Aquatics Volunteer!

Why did you choose to volunteer at The Connection/become a part of The Connection community?
I first became involved volunteering at The Connection in 8th grade. I have always loved to swim and have swam competitively since age 7, so I felt that helping handicapped children and adults swim and providing care and companionship to them would be volunteer work I would truly enjoy. I am now a senior in high school and have continued to volunteer with Adapted Aquatics as often as possible throughout high school. I think this speaks volumes about the meaningful work the Adapted Aquatics program at The Connection does. Both handicapped swimmers and volunteers truly enjoy making connections with each other and swimming together.

How have you seen lives/the community impacted because of your efforts?
I see the lives of those I swim with impacted by my efforts every time I jump in the pool with them.  Swimming and being in water is a pleasure everyone can enjoy, including people with mental and physical disabilities.  Volunteering at The Connection, I have seen that those I swim with truly love being active and social in the water.  Providing friendship and encouragement and ensuring their safety as we swim together helps these swimmers enjoy the water to its fullest extent, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to improve their experiences swimming at The Connection.

How has your life changed by volunteering?
My life has changed by volunteering because it has opened me to a world of people I may have never had the opportunity to interact with had I not participated in Adapted Aquatics at The Connection. From lifeguards to handicapped swimmers, the people I have connected with through volunteering and our shared love of swimming are some of the friendliest, kindest people I have ever met.  Swimming with Adapted Aquatics allows me to connect with true friends and helps me be mindful and kind to all.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at The Connection?
I wish other people knew that The Connection is not just a fitness and recreation center. The Connection is a place to volunteer, improve and strengthen the community, and connect with wonderful people.