The Greater Boise Aquatic Foundation is a recognized non-profit organization with a mission to provide
opportunities for community members of all ages to participate in aquatic activities, including swim lessons,
competitive swimming, water polo, fitness, therapy, and recreation.
The Foundation’s main goals consist of the following:
(1) Build aquatic centers;
(2) Provide financial assistance for participation in aquatic activities, including swim lessons, competitive swimming, water polo, and other areas of interest;
(3)Conduct both noncompetitive and competitive events to further the development of aquatic skills and
endeavors; and
(4) Develop support for organizations that provide aquatic opportunities for the community.
No child is ever water safe. The goal of swim lessons is to make children SAFER in, on, and around water.
~79% of children in households with incomes less than $50,000 have little-to-no swimming ability.
~Research shows 64% of African American, 45% of Hispanic/Latino, and 40% of Caucasian children have
little to no swimming ability.
~10 people drown each day in the United States.
~Formal swimming lessons reduces the likelihood of childhood drowning by 88%.
GBAF is passionate about ensuring community safety in and around water. We believe that every community
member should have access to affordable learn-to-swim opportunities.
We aim to provide opportunities for underserved minority groups, including African-American and Hispanic community members. These demographic groups are most likely to need access to quality programming and quality water space.
We aim to provide opportunities for underserved economically challenged community members. Cost or access to water space should not be a barrier to water safety.
Boise enjoys abundant access to rivers, lakes, reservoirs and canals, but we do not have enough water space to teach fundamental water safety and lessons.
Boise is experiencing a massive growth period. GBAF wants to ensure the Treasure Valley can continue to attract and retain top talent. Providing both community amenities and opportunities for safe recreation are important for long-term success in the Treasure Valley.
~ Did you know that 20% of collegiate women will pursue a STEM field?
~ However, 44% of collegiate women swimmers will pursue a STEM field.
~ Attracting talent also means investing in today’s youth and providing adequate opportunities for them to be
successful. Community Development encompasses the well-being of family and safety of citizens. These can
be accomplished with the availability of the right community resources.
GBAF is working with a number of organizations to make sure water safety is a priority in the Treasure Valley:
~ USA Swimming
~ USA Swimming Foundation
~ Idaho Competitive Aquatics
~ Greater Boise Auditorium District
~ Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau
~ USA Water Polo
~ And others…
All of these organizations strive to ensure that opportunities exist for all demographics and they all understand the importance of water safety for all citizens. Through collaboration with these entities and local businesses, GBAF will provide countless opportunities for the underserved members of our city and make Boise a safe community for everyone.
