As summer looms on the horizon, the specter of accidental drownings becomes increasingly urgent in New York City. With last year’s deaths by drowning hitting a highest point since 2019, it’s clear that the need for water safety education is not just relevant but imperative. At the forefront of a transformative movement is Rising Tide Effect, a non-profit organization founded by former Division 1 swimmer Kaitlin Krause. Launched in 2020, Krause’s vision is to provide water safety resources and swimming lessons to New Yorkers in overlooked and high-risk communities. By focusing on accessible education, Rising Tide Effect aims to turn the tide against tragic accidents in the water, restoring not only safety but also joy and connection to the ocean.
Water as a Source of Healing and Joy
Krause’s philosophy rooted in the healing properties of water shines through in her initiatives. The recent gathering of supporters highlighted the organization’s mission—to foster accessibility to water-related activities for communities often sidelined in such conversations. During the event, Krause passionately articulated the need for comprehensive education about aquatic environments: “The water is something that everybody in this room has a connection with…but the reality is that most people don’t have that.” This stark truth underscores a systemic gap in water safety education that can lead to tragic outcomes.
What’s poignant is Krause’s emphasis on exposure; many youths engaged in the Rising Tide Effect programs had never had the chance to experience swimming or even step onto a beach. Allowing these teens the opportunity to surf at the Rockaways represents not merely a recreational venture, but a significant step toward integrating diverse communities into New York’s aquatic culture. By learning to navigate these environments, individuals can cultivate a personal relationship with water—breaking barriers that have historically marginalized certain populations from this universal natural resource.
The Significance of Risk Awareness
One of the most salient points raised during the gathering was Krause’s assertion that the lack of water safety education often leads to ignorance about aquatic risks. Young people frequently arrive at beaches after hours, recklessly abandoning safety protocols due to a lack of knowledge. Krause poignantly pointed out, “If you can spot a rip current, and you know you’re going to die if you go into a rip current, you’re not going to go for a swim.” This simple yet powerful acknowledgment illuminates why programs like Rising Tide Effect are crucial; they provide not just swimming strategies but also an understanding of aquatic risks that can save lives.
The group’s upcoming campaign, “Water Wise – Respect the Rip,” set to appear across various public transport mediums, underlines their commitment to addressing this education gap directly. The campaign intends to provoke thought and awareness among individuals who might otherwise remain uninformed. The proactive approach signifies a shift in how communities view water safety—not as a preventative measure, but as an essential element of urban well-being.
Community Collaboration for a Common Cause
The collaborative efforts behind Rising Tide Effect illustrate another critical aspect: community involvement is vital in creating sustainable water safety programs. Michi Jigarjian, a vice chair of the organization, noted that engaging local businesses and representatives has been pivotal in harnessing support. The organization’s pilot program, initiated at the Rockaway Hotel, indicated a promising start. Jigarjian emphasized that the hotel utilized its pool proactively even before the establishment’s completion, recognizing the urgent need for such amenities in a drowning-prone area.
It’s clear that community leaders, like Queens Council Member Shekar Krishnan, are keen on broader legislative changes to support swimming programs across neighborhoods lacking public swimming facilities. His efforts to collaborate with local schools underscore how meaningful partnerships can facilitate access to critical resources like swimming lessons—the key to empowering a generation with confidence and safety in water.
Transforming Lives Through Positive Experiences
At its heart, Rising Tide Effect is about more than just preventing drownings; it’s about transforming lives through access to swimming and water-related joy. Their mantra is infused with positivity, viewing every swimmer as a testament to the organization’s capacity to inspire growth and self-love. Board chair Jon-Paul Rorech encapsulated this hope, remarking that the organization aims to “transform that fear and shame, and turn it into joy, self-love, and confidence.” The narrative shifts from one of tragedy to one of triumph, showing how education can foster empowerment.
The forthcoming “Poolside Party” fundraiser signals not just monetary support but also communal hope and solidarity. It is an invitation to friends and supporters to join forces, elevating water safety from an isolated cause to a collective movement. A strong community can redefine the narrative surrounding water safety in New York City, ensuring that every individual—regardless of their background—can connect with the healing waters that surround them.
In the pooling currents of change, Rising Tide Effect stands as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when communities come together to prioritize water safety. It is a reminder that every effort to educate and empower can save lives and create a more connected, safer future for everyone.