Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Local Partner program?

A program created by the USA Swimming Foundation to provide local programs a way to activate the Make a Splash initiative in their community. To learn more about the Local Partner program, click here.

Can I use the Make a Splash name in my community?

Yes, by participating in the Local Partner program you can activate Make a Splash in your community. Read more about the Local Partner program here. 

Are USA Swimming clubs the only organizations eligible to participate in the Local Partner Program?

No. The Local Partner Program is open to ALL learn-to-swim providers and organizations in the United States as long as the program meets the Local Partner Program guidelines.

Is Make a Splash affiliated with a particular learn-to-swim provider?

Make a Splash recognizes and supports all national learn-to-swim organizations. If a provider utilizes an independently-developed learn-to-swim curriculum, the program will be reviewed by USA Swimming.

Can I solicit local sponsor support for my program?

Yes. Local Partners can solicit local businesses and foundations for contributions to support the Sponsor a Swim Lesson program. All contributions related to Make a Splash programming must be reported as outlined in the Local Partner program guidelines.

Can I solicit individual donor support for my program?   

Yes. Local Partners can solicit individual donations to support the Sponsor a Swim Lesson program. All donations related to Make a Splash programming must be reported as outlined in the Local Partner program guidelines.

Can my learn-to-swim program receive funding directly from USA Swimming?

At this time, the USA Swimming Foundation is not directly funding individual programs. However, by participating in the Local Partner phase of the initiative, your program will be eligible to apply for any future funding or scholarship grants that are made available.

What are the benefits of participating as a Local Partner?

1. Utilize the Make a Splash name and branding in your community to help drive awareness for your learn-to-swim and aquatic programs
2. Participate in an on-going, national marketing and public relations campaign along with the USA Swimming Foundation and its corporate and aquatic partners
3. Receive a free promotional kit of materials to use in your community including:
   1. Program Overview – facts and figures to show your community why this initiative is so important
   2. CD that includes flyer templates, posters, ways-to-get-involved checklist, images, press release templates, logo artwork and logo usage guidelines
   3. 20 Make a Splash pins
   4. 20 Make a Splash cards
   5. 20 laminated Water Watcher cards 
   6. 100 Make a Splash tattoos
   7. 2 Make a Splash Banners to hang in your facility
   8. Pre-produced, 30-second TV commercials (PSAs)
   9. Marketing and programming ideas
   10. Opportunity to purchase additional Make a Splash materials at cost
4. Access to a national learn-to-swim general liability insurance program with attractive rates
5. Enhanced ability to raise funds in your community to help provide “scholarships” to children from economically-disadvantaged populations
6. Potential to apply for future grant dollars and/or scholarship support

What are some ideas to activate the Local Partner Program in my area?

The ideas are limitless, but here are a few thought starters:

1. Contact local agencies that specialize in outreach programs, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, Scouts, Big Brothers Big Sisters, etc., and invite them to utilize the new discounted lesson program
2. Contact nearby elementary schools to negotiate a partnership to offer discounted programs for third-graders for learn to swim classes
3. Contact EMT, Fire and Police training entities and ask them to be ambassadors for Make a Splash during community events and school visits
4. Utilize the Make a Splash public service announcements in local media
5. Utilize the USA Swimming Swim-a-Thon program to dedicate funds to this cause