Dow Bay Area Family YMCA
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Lifeguard candidates learn the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. The course content and activities prepare candidates to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries. Candidates must attend all classes. Ages 15+ only please.
Participants will receive a welcome letter via email upon or soon after registration. Please be sure your email is up to date so that you receive this letter. The welcome letter contains information about the course as well as a link to the online learning session. Participants must complete this online portion prior to the first on-site session date.
During the first on-site session participants must pass a prerequisite test which includes a 300 swim, a timed brick retrieval test, and a 2-minute tread water. More information about the prerequisite test is located in the welcome letter.
The Dow Bay Area Family YMCA is launching a Swim to Work Program! This is a readiness-training program that aims to take individuals ages 16 and up through becoming certified lifeguards. Participants do not need to know how to swim before beginning but must not be afraid to go underwater. Lifeguard positions are perfect for individuals looking for part-time work with a flexible schedule and a free Y membership benefit. It is a great opportunity for a first job, a job for students, and an excellent retirement job.
This Swim to Work Program is FREE*
*Participants will sign a contract stating they will complete the necessary programs to become lifeguard certified and work as a Dow Bay Area Family YMCA lifeguard covering at least two shifts/ days per week for a minimum of six (6) months.
How does this program work?
The Swim to Work program meets individuals where they are in their swimming ability and then focuses on the necessary skills and techniques to help them pass the lifeguard certification course. Participants can join the program anytime between January 8th – March 25th. The length of time to complete this program is dependent on the individual’s swimming ability, how comfortable they are in the water, and the time it takes to complete the specialized Lifeguard Certification course. This program will meet once a week on Mondays and run during our 6-week program sessions.
Lifeguard Certification will be in March.
May 18th, 19th, 25th and 26th (all class times run 12-6pm)
This class is FREE!
The State of Michigan has provided a Community Enhancement Grant to the State Alliance of Michigan YMCAs to support youth, family, and senior programming across 26 Michigan YMCAs.
Registration closes by May 4th
All Spots Filled. Waitlist Here.
Monday – Thursday
5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday
5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Monday – Thursday
5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday
5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Individuals will not be turned away from participating in programs, activities, and/or membership due to their inability to pay. The Y maintains a generous financial assistance program for youth, adults, and families who demonstrate financial need. Funding for this program is provided by fundraising events at the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA and community-wide donors.