The Institute is offering swim lessons for 140 Navajo boys and girls. The lessons are being held at the Shiprock Natatorium and the Farmington Aquatics Center. The lessons are part of the Institute’s mission to “drownproof” Navajo children. In Shiprock, Institute Trustee Jerry Paulson will provide swim lessons for two weeks each to more than 100 Navajo boys and girls attending the summer Day camp program of the Boys and Girls Club day camp program. In Farmington, an additional 40 Navajo boys and girls will be taught swimming as part of the Farmington Aquatics Center summer programs.

The Ship rock and Farmington facilities have been selected because of their pristine water conditions, clean and professional facilities, staff certified by the American Red Cross in Water Safety, the presence of Navajo on the facility staff, the ability of these facilities to generate constantly pristine water, a genuine welcoming atmosphere for all Navajo children., and a high quality staff members with good character as facility lifeguards, instructors, and managers. Swim pools in the Navajo Nation area which think they might meet these standards are invited to apply for Institute sponsorship of Navajo children. The Institute also sponsors the training of Navajo high school age youth as lifeguards, water safety instructors, CPR instructors, and other certified American Red Cross courses instructors.

Inquiries should be directed at the Institute at (888) 528-2116, or email to sbray@nisj.org.