In recent years, the rising statistics surrounding accidental drownings in New York City have painted a distressing portrait of aquatic danger, particularly in underserved communities. Last year marked a grim milestone as the city recorded its highest number of drownings since 2019. As the summer season approaches—ushering in warmer weather and increased water activities—there is an urgent need to address this crisis. One innovative organization at the forefront of this movement is the Rising Tide Effect, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming water safety education and swimming accessibility for vulnerable populations.
Founded in 2020 by Kaitlin Krause, a former Division 1 swimmer, the Rising Tide Effect not only focuses on teaching swimming but also seeks to foster a deeper connection between individuals and the water. “This is a matter of life and death,” Krause highlighted at a recent gathering of supporters, which included key figures like NYC’s First Deputy Parks Commissioner, Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, and Queens Council Member, Shekar Krishnan. This gathering emphasized the collective responsibility to bridge the gap in water safety education and ensure it becomes an inclusive experience rather than an exclusive privilege.
Bridging the Access Gap
Krause’s vision extends beyond mere swimming lessons; she aims to cultivate a culture where water safety is ingrained in communities that traditionally lack access to such resources. The stark reality is that countless individuals grow up without any kind of water safety education, often unaware of fundamental risks like rip currents. “There’s a total lack of water safety education that is so apparent,” Krause noted, stressing that understanding these dangers is crucial. The lack of awareness can lead to fatal consequences, particularly among youth who feel pressured to fit in and might be reluctant to admit their swimming limitations.
The Rising Tide Effect seeks to dismantle this stigma and instead empower local youth. Through immersive experiences, the organization allows participants to make memories in the water, transitioning from fear to exhilaration as they learn essential swimming skills. Krause cites a video showcasing teens surfing for the first time in the Rockaways, revealing a profound transformation in their relationship with the ocean. “For most, that’s their very first time in the ocean. We want to expose people to the water because the water is healing,” she proclaimed. The healing powers of water, coupled with skills in swimming, can significantly alter the lives of at-risk populations.
Innovative Campaigns and Collaborative Solutions
This summer, the Rising Tide Effect will launch its new campaign, “Water Wise – Respect the Rip,” utilizing various forms of public transportation advertising to promote essential water safety awareness. Their pilot program, initiated at the Rockaway Hotel, demonstrated the strong community needs regarding safety education. Michi Jigarjian, vice chair of Rising Tide Effect and owner of the hotel, emphasized their commitment to tackling the alarming drowning rates in the area. “We were the only operating pool at the time of our opening,” he shared, reinforcing the hotel’s role in this proactive initiative.
The success of this pilot program proved to be just the beginning, paving the way for further community efforts. Rising Tide Effect currently administers six programs across four locations, making strides towards their mission to save lives and create lasting positive change. As board chair Jon-Paul Rorech articulated, “Death by drowning, accidental drowning is a horrific thing, and it’s happening in our community… That’s our main goal—but we also want to empower a positive evolution.” The emphasis on emotional and psychological empowerment reflects a broader aim—transforming fear into confidence.
Community Impact and Legislative Action
Community involvement and legislative progress are core elements of the Rising Tide Effect’s multifaceted approach. Council Member Krishnan has taken up the mantle by advocating for water safety in his localities, where public swimming pools are scarce. His efforts to partner with private institutions to facilitate swimming lessons are a testament to the community’s need for accessible water safety education.
Attendees of a recent fundraising event included influential figures such as former Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy executive director Nancy Webster and Visionaire co-founder Cecilia Dean, highlighting the widespread support for this cause. Their presence signifies a growing recognition that engaging youth in water activities not only equips them with life-saving skills but also cultivates a sense of belonging and joy.
The Rising Tide Effect represents an essential movement toward changing the narrative surrounding water safety, moving from tragedy to empowerment. By prioritizing education and accessibility, the organization stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that all New Yorkers, regardless of background or socio-economic status, can find joy and safety in the water. This innovative approach not only addresses the current drowning crisis but also fosters a sense of community collaboration and resilience that could reshape the future of aquatic safety in the city.