YMCA hosts fundraiser for Okanagan children's water safety

The YMCA of Southern Interior BC is hosting its second annual ‘Make a Splash’ fundraiser at the H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre. The event aims to raise funds for the Okanagan Swim program, which provides free swim lessons to every Grade 3 student in School District 23 to ensure water safety regardless of financial status.

Water safety is a critical issue in the region, as Okanagan Lake has seen 38 deaths since 2015, including five this summer. The fundraiser will feature activities such as a community BBQ, family aquafit, and various duck races. Two-time Canadian Olympian Kierra Smith is scheduled to attend as a special guest and celebrity referee for the Quack and Splash Team Challenge.