Julie now five, started swimming when she was 22 months old. The gap in swimming opportunities due to pandemic-related pool closures left her nervous about getting back in the water. Her parents decided to change pools and started with University Settlement in September 2021. “Online signup was easy, and lessons were affordable with lots of choices,” her parents shared.

Her University Settlement swimming instructor noticed that she was hesitant, but he knew she had the potential to do more. “When I started teaching Julie, she wanted me to hold her every time she did a front or back glide.” With his encouragement, Julie eventually started to do everything on her own and advanced from Pre-school Swimmer 3 to Swimmer 2. “Her independence and swimming skills are admirable. Julie is a pleasure to teach,” her instructor said.

Julie’s family particularly enjoys the weekend family swims that allow them to participate in Julie’s journey.

“Throughout our time at the University Settlement, we found everyone friendly, and it became a refuge for us during these difficult times. We are looking forward to her first session of Summer Day Camp at University Settlement this summer.”