Cortland County Red Cross Learn to Swim Program

On July 24, the summer “Learn-to-Swim” program sponsored by the American Red Cross of Cortland County came to a close. This annual event is free, and made possible because of its support from the Cortland City Youth Bureau and your donations to the United Way for Cortland County.

The Free “Learn-to-Swim” program was conducted July 6-24 with 147 children participating and 40 volunteers assisting. A dish to pass picnic was held on July 24 at the Rotary Shelter in Suggett Park for volunteers participating in the program. Pudgie’s Pizza provided the pizza, Burger King donated the punch and cups, and Doug’s Fish Fry provided the plates.

The volunteers that made this program such a success, are as follows:

Instructors: Marcia Bulger, Diane Chu, Joan Chu, Philip Chu, Cecile Dore, Jean Minnella, Larry Pfister, and Cathy Thomas.

Water Aides: Bridget Burdick, Brenda Golden, Jenna Gregory, Taylor Huenick, Erin Keck, Jonathan Kirkwyland, Betsy Lampman, Lisa Lassey, Christina Lederman, Alex Lyon, Sarah Ramey, Denise Rzepka, Alison Thomas, Carrie Thomas, Caitlin Troy, Sue VanBuskirk, and Janet Vorstadt.

Deck Aides: Paula Gustafson, Karen Keck, Rose King, Amy Lyman, Sharon McNeil, Patricia Ostrander, Gail Potter, Gloria Rogers, and Rosemary Russell.

Babysitters: Shannon Alm, Levgenuiia Antonova, Michelle Brown, Alice McLaughlin, Vicki Myers, and Elke Wright.

The Cortland Red Cross extends a special THANK YOU to Chair, Jean Minnella, and the individuals who volunteered their time for the summer Learn-To-Swim program. Their commitment to this program is a true example of just how valuable volunteers are. Without their dedication, this program would not be possible.