YMCA Leads Regional Effort to Kick Off Safer Summers with World’s Largest Swimming Lesson

On Thursday, June 26, 2025, the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, in partnership with the YWCA Lower Cape Fear, will join aquatic centers around the globe to host The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™. This free event aims to teach children and adults essential water safety and swimming skills — a critical step in preventing drowning, which remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for kids.

Locally, lessons will be held at multiple sites across the region, including:

• Robert Strange Pool (410 S. 10th St.)

• Legion Stadium Pool (2131 Carolina Beach Rd.)

• YWCA Lower Cape Fear (2815 College Rd.)

• Sampson County YMCA (417 East Johnson Street, Clinton)

The Sampson County YMCA will offer lessons from 9:00–11:00 a.m. and 4:30–7:00 p.m. at intermittent times. Campers at Brigade Boys & Girls Club and YMCA Camp Kirkwood will also participate in this global event.

“At the YMCA, water safety is part of our promise to strengthen communities and support every child’s potential,” said Austin Moore, Swim Specialist at the Nir Family YMCA. “By partnering with other local organizations for The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, we’re making sure families across our region have access to skills that can save lives — and build confidence for a lifetime.”

Registration is required and will remain open through June 26. Participants are encouraged to bring a towel and come ready to swim. To learn more and register, visit: ymcasenc.org/WLSL