Title: YMCA Offers Free Lifeguard Certification to Address Lifeguard Crisis in New York City
Date: June 20, 2023
In April, 19-year-old Luis Cueto successfully completed the lifeguard course at the YMCA, and he is now working part-time as a lifeguard at the YMCA center in Arverne, located in the Rockaways, Queens. The center pays lifeguards $20 per hour, making it an attractive opportunity for Cueto and others interested in working in this field.
Cueto expressed his enthusiasm for the job, stating, “I felt very good because I love water. I have been swimming for almost two years, and who wouldn’t want to be in a pool during the summer, doing what they love?”
The city of New York is currently facing a lifeguard crisis, with a shortage of qualified lifeguards. To address this issue, the YMCA, a nonprofit fitness and recreation organization, is offering free lifeguard certification to all New Yorkers who are interested in working in this area. Heidi Ortiz, the director of aquatic activities at YMCA Arverne, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “There are many children and adults who are drowning in the summer because they don’t know how to swim. By taking this course, you can help the community.”
The lifeguard certification course offered by the YMCA lasts for five days, from Monday to Friday, with classes running from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Participants must be 16 years of age or older, pass a swim test, and show a New York State ID. Importantly, this training is open to the entire community, regardless of immigration status. Ortiz emphasized, “It doesn’t matter if you don’t have papers or documents; you can still come and take the course.”
Upon completion of the lifeguard certification course, participants receive a bonus of $650 from the YMCA to help cover the expenses incurred during their training. Ortiz explained, “We want you to be focused on the course and not worry about how you will get here or pay for food. That’s why we provide the bonus.”
It is important to note that this certification is not valid for employment at the city’s public beaches and pools. However, it does qualify individuals to work as lifeguards in swimming pools for non-profit organizations and private entities. Ortiz highlighted the preparedness of YMCA-certified lifeguards, stating, “They leave super prepared to work in swimming pools at gyms, hotels, and other centers.”
For those interested in becoming lifeguard certified to work for the city, they can visit the website NYCgovparks.org. Additionally, seats for the free YMCA Lifeguarding class are currently open, and more details can be found on the YMCA website, ymcanyc.org.
In conclusion, the YMCA’s free lifeguard certification program is providing an opportunity for individuals like Luis Cueto to pursue their passion for water and help address the lifeguard crisis in New York City. By offering this training to the community, regardless of immigration status, the YMCA is ensuring that more individuals are equipped with the necessary skills to keep people safe in and around water.
How can interested individuals pre-register for the free lifeguard certification program offered by the YMCA
Earn essential lifesaving skills and potentially save lives.”
The YMCA’s lifeguard certification program provides comprehensive training in water rescue techniques, CPR, AED usage, and first aid. The program is designed to ensure that lifeguards are well-prepared to respond to emergencies and maintain a safe aquatic environment.
To participate in the free lifeguard certification program offered by the YMCA, interested individuals can pre-register for upcoming courses. The Duluth Area Family YMCA, for example, offers lifeguard classes where pre-registration is required. If you are unable to attend these classes at the YMCA center, the organization also provides the option to have an instructor come to your site.
By offering free lifeguard certification, the YMCA aims to address the lifeguard crisis in New York City and increase the number of qualified lifeguards available to safeguard public pools and beaches. This initiative not only provides individuals like Luis Cueto with valuable employment opportunities but also contributes to the safety and well-being of residents and visitors in the city.
If you are interested in becoming a lifeguard and obtaining the necessary certification, I recommend visiting the YMCA’s website for more information on their upcoming courses and registration process.
This is an incredible initiative to address the lifeguard crisis in NYC and ensure the safety of swimmers. Offering free YMCA lifeguard certification will not only help combat the shortage but also create more opportunities for aspiring lifeguards. Well done YMCA!