Annual
Impact Report
Empowering Communities through Water Safety: Aqua Angels Impact Report 2023
water safety Landscape
For many adults, learning to swim presents a unique set of challenges that extend beyond physical skill development. Anxiety, fear of water, and past negative experiences can create significant barriers to entering the water and embracing the learning process. Cultural factors, limited access to affordable swim lessons, and misconceptions about age and ability further compound these obstacles. Additionally, the stigma surrounding adult non-swimmers can contribute to feelings of embarrassment and reluctance to seek instruction.
As a result, many adults in our communities remain hesitant to engage with water-related activities, limiting their opportunities for recreation, exercise, and essential water safety knowledge.
Why our work matters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 37% of American adults are unable to swim the length of a standard pool. This statistic underscores the critical need for initiatives like Aqua Angels, which aims to address this gap in water safety education.
By providing accessible swim lessons and empowering individuals with essential skills, we strive to reduce this statistic and prevent water-related accidents and drowning incidents in our communities.
Mission
Our mission is to provide affordable and accessible swim lessons and lifesaving certifications for adult communities in Upstate South Carolina, fostering confidence, empowerment, and a lifelong love for aquatic activities.
Vision
Our vision is to help people from all communities overcome fears and anxieties about jumping into the deep end.
Aqua Angels Nonprofit envisions a community where water safety is accessible to everyone, empowering individuals to overcome fears and enjoy the many physical and mental health benefits of swimming.
Our Programs
1
Summer
Swim Classes
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12+ weeks of classes twice a week in 3ft - 9ft deep water
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Aqua Angels recruits and trains volunteer swim instructors
2
Fall
Swim Classes
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8-week fall course taught at two different locations, Crunch Fitness and Eastside Y, in 3ft - 10ft deep water
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Aqua Angels recruits and trains volunteer swim instructors
3
Spring
Swim Classes
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8-week spring course taught at four different locations, Crunch Fitness, Eastside Y, Caine Halter Y, and Greenville Aquatics Complex, in 3ft - 10ft deep water.
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Aqua Angels recruits and trains volunteer swim instructors
2023 Outcomes
1,500+ Registrants
200+ Participants
15+ volunteer swim instructors
Received national recognition from the American Red Cross
Featured on WYFF4 and Fox Carolina news
$10,000+ in grassroots community fundraising
Financial Statement 2022
Revenue Amount
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Corporate donations $0.00
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Fundraising $0.00
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Individual contributions $2,750
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Program fees $0.00
Total Revenue $2,750
Expenses Amount
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Pool Space/Rentals in-kind donation
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Pool Noodles in-kind donation
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Goggles $0.00
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Kickboards in-kind
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Swim caps $0.00
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Liability Insurance $1,400.00
Total Expenses $1,400.00
Financial Statement 2023
Revenue Amount
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Corporate donations $4,525.00
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Fundraising $1,000.00
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Individual contributions $2,750
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Program fees $8.478.00
Total Revenue $16,753.00
Expenses Amount
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Pool Space/Rentals $ 750.00 per month
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Pool Noodles $ 200.00 annually
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Goggles $ 300.00 annually
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Kickboards $ 200.00
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Swim caps $ 200.00 annually
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Pool Chemicals $1,000.00
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Liability Insurance $1,400.00
Total Expenses $4,050.00
Partners
Crunch Fitness
YMCA
Brookside Pool
American Red Cross of South Carolina
Upstate Splash
Greenville Splash
Greenville County Aquatics Complex
Accomplishments since we started in 2021
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Awarded The Greenville Community Hero Award 2021 by the Greenville News and Greenville Federal Credit Union.
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Provided affordable swim lessons to over 1,500 adults and counting, including upwards of 95% women since inception.
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Conducted outreach programs to address barriers to water safety education, such as fear and financial constraints.
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Formed partnerships with the Greenville YMCA’s offering our Aqua Angels Swim lessons at the Eastside Family YMCA and Caine Halter YMCA.
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Built a supportive network of volunteers, instructors, and community partners committed to our mission.
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Featured on WYFF News Channel 4 in summer 2021, 2022 and 2023 (exclusive story for '4 The Record').
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Formed Partnership with the American Red Cross to further Promote health and wellness through aquatic activities and American Red Cross courses, contributing to a healthier and more confident community.
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Chosen for the Red Cross’s feature for Water Safety Month in 2022.
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Recognized Nationally by the American Red Cross and featured in their social media campaign called “Stories that Inspire” .
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Won Fuel for Good Marketing Grant, valued at $10k.
A note from Rebekah
Dear Aqua Angels Community,
As we reflect on the incredible journey of 2023, it fills me with immense pride and gratitude for each and every one of you who has been a part of our Aqua Angels family. This past year has been filled with triumphs, challenges, and countless moments of growth, both in and out of the water.
Together, we've seen our participants conquer their fears, develop new skills, and embrace the joy of swimming. Our dedicated instructors have poured their hearts into guiding and supporting every swimmer, fostering an environment of encouragement and empowerment.
Looking ahead to 2024, I am filled with anticipation for the continued evolution of Aqua Angels. We are committed to expanding our reach, ensuring that swimming lessons are accessible to all who seek them. From beginners taking their first strokes to seasoned swimmers refining their technique, Aqua Angels will continue to be a beacon of inclusivity and excellence in swim education.
In the coming year, we look forward to unveiling exciting new programs, forging partnerships within the community, and empowering even more individuals to unlock the transformative power of swimming. Together, let us dive into 2024 with passion, purpose, and a shared commitment to making waves of positive change.
Thank you for being a part of the Aqua Angels journey. Here's to another year of growth, achievement, and making a splash!
With gratitude,
Rebekah