BBAF’s endeavors to enhance the safety and health of the children we serve; to improve their academic performance; and to create employment opportunities for them within their communities.
Safety: Water safety and swim lessons are the priority. With a population that lives on a narrow peninsula surrounded by the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean, it is especially important that all children acquire basic swimming skills. Ten people drown each day and 1 in 5 is a child under 14. Swim lessons reduce the risk of drowning by 88%. BBAF’s goal is to make swim lessons affordable and accessible to neighborhoods in need.
Health: In San Mateo County, 35% of Hispanic and 38% of African-American children are obese. Swimming helps participants improve their overall physical health as well benefiting those suffering with diseases such as diabetes and asthma. BBAF’s goal is to introduce children in underserved communities to a lifelong activity, which will improve their overall health.
Academic and Personal Success: Children who participate in sports such as swim team and water polo are more likely to obtain better grades, enhance their social skills, and develop their potential for leadership. Basic swim skills are a prerequisite to have access to a full range of programs in high school (swim team, dive team, water polo team, etc.) and opens up college opportunities (scholarships). BBAF’s goal is to empower all neighborhood children with the opportunities that set them up for academic advancement and a path to success.
Employment: The communities we serve suffer a rate of unemployment double that of neighboring cities. By subsidizing lifeguard training, a job skill currently in high demand, BBAF can provide teens with the opportunity to work locally. As lifeguards they will be valued and compensated, as well as become role models for the younger children.
BBAF Metrics
