Recognizing this critical need, the “BIPOC LGTP” is designed to address these disparities head-on. This grant program aims to provide comprehensive lifeguard training, swimming lessons, and water safety education specifically to BIPOC individuals in Minneapolis. Our goal is not only to enhance safety in our waters but also to empower the BIPOC community through education, employment opportunities, and community engagement in aquatic activities.
Program Details
No fees will be assessed to participants however consistent attendance is required to participate. The BIPOC Lifeguard Training Program is designed for 15-20 participants for a total of 10 weeks with 2 sessions per week (total of 20 sessions), with each session an hour and a half long (30 hours total!). It will be geared toward BIPOC youth who can begin the program by passing the American Red Cross (ARC) Water Competency Test.
- The first 5 weeks will be focused on building swim skills aimed toward passing the prerequisite swim test for American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course.
- The next 4 weeks of the program will be building on those swimming skills by incorporating the water rescues required by the ARC Lifeguard Course.
- The last week of the program will be reserved for the final team scenarios and the multiple-choice written test, which are the final requirements for receiving an ARC Lifeguard Certification. This will enable to obtain a certification which is valid for 2 years and is the standard certification required by MPRB Lifeguards
No fees will be assessed to participants however consistent attendance is required to participate. The BIPOC Lifeguard Training Program is designed for 15-20 participants for a total of 10 weeks with 2 sessions per week from 4pm to 5:30pm occurring on Mondays and Wednesdays starting on March 25th (total of 20 sessions), with each session an hour and a half long (30 hours total!). It will be geared toward BIPOC youth who can begin the program by passing the American Red Cross (ARC) Water Competency Test.
Participants will receive:
- If a participant does not have the gear, a swimsuit, cap, goggles, etc. can be available at no cost.
- No cost registration fee for the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification.
- Summer employment opportunity at North Commons Waterpark, Webber NSP, or Lupient Waterpark
- Potential to maintain employment with the MPRB during the school year at the Phillips Aquatics Center.
For any questions about this program, please email mmohamed@minneapolisparks.org