The Stop Youth Drowning: Safe Swim Berkshires Initiative delivers free, one-on-one instruction from certified aquatic professionals to at-risk students, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to stay safe in and around water.
Through Linda’s personal underwriting, the program debuted in April 2025, welcoming 21 students aged 12-16 from Pittsfield Public Schools, all of whom had little to no swimming ability. Each participant received a free swimsuit, towel, swim bag, swim cap, lunch, transportation, and individualized instruction during a five-day pilot session held at donated pool facilities from the YMCA and Girls Inc. in Pittsfield.
Initiative Expands After Successful Pilot
Exceptional feedback from students, families, and volunteers affirmed the program’s impact–highlighting gains in confidence, water safety knowledge, and social interactions with fellow participants. The success has sparked a formal partnership with the Berkshire Family YMCA, which will lead operations and fundraising to expand the program. Four week-long sessions are planned over the next year, with the next session scheduled for August 11-15 at the downtown Pittsfield Y pool.
The inspiration for the initiative came from tragedy: the drowning of a 12-year-old girl during a school field trip in July 2024. Deeply affected by the loss, Linda joined forces with Pittsfield Public Schools Teacher and Coach Jennifer Roccabruna to create a proactive solution.
“The program gives young people the opportunity to grow as leaders and peer advocates for water safety. Through their words and actions, they inspire their classmates to step out of their comfort zones and into the water,” affirms Linda. “Our ultimate goal is for every Pittsfield Public Schools student to gain these life-saving skills by participating in Safe Swim Berkshires.”
Add Your Support
The Safe Swim Berkshires Initiative continues to seek community support through volunteerism, funding, and advocacy to expand its reach and save more young lives. To contribute to its future success, click here.
