The Derby Recreation Commission Endowment Fund is dedicated to raising money to offer free Lifeguard Certification classes to motivated individuals through the Derby Recreation Center. Due to the high cost of training, many individuals do not have the opportunity to become lifeguard certified. By investing in this fund, donors directly ensure that individuals have the chance to gain professional lifeguarding skills to secure employment and contribute to water safety in our area. Donations are strategically invested, and a portion of the fund’s earnings will be used annually to provide lifeguard certifications free of charge to those working for the DRC.

Thanks to a generous $20,000 community match, every dollar you give goes twice as far!

"We've had multiple family members work in aquatics for the DRC over the years and know the profound and lifelong impact it has provided. Our donation to the Derby Recreation Commission Endowment Fund is a way to pay forward the success our family has found through these essential skills. By helping remove financial barriers, this fund gives more people not just a job skill, but a foundation for success. We are honored to match all funds raised up to $20,000 to help ensure this legacy of skill-building continues for generations to come."- Durrel and DeVon Kelley

Free Lifeguard Certification classes will not be offered until this endowment is fully funded. Your contribution is vital to reaching this goal and activating the program.

Note: 5% of your contribution is donated to the Derby Community Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the $20,000 match mean?

The $20,000 match doubles the impact of your gift! For every dollar donated to the Derby Recreation Commission Endowment Fund, a generous donor will contribute an equal amount, up to $20,000. That means your support goes twice as far in helping future lifeguards receive the certifications they need.

How will my donation be used?

Donations to the Derby Recreation Commission Endowment Fund directly support individuals seeking lifeguard certification. Your gift helps cover the cost of the American Red Cross Lifeguard course, including training materials, instructor fees, and certification processing, so that motivated community members can earn their certification without financial barriers.

In addition to removing financial obstacles, your donation strengthens our ability to recruit and retain qualified lifeguards for local pools and aquatic programs. This ensures safer facilities and builds a reliable pipeline of well-trained lifeguards for years to come.

Why are lifeguards important?

A fully staffed pool or waterpark is a safe pool/waterpark. When the financial barrier is removed, we are able to recruit from a broader and deeper pool of talent, ensuring we have highly trained, attentive eyes watching over our guests. This fund directly contributes to drowning prevention and operational excellence at our facilities.

How much does a lifeguard certification class cost?

The American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification course offered at the DRC costs $200 per person. This fee includes all class materials, American Red Cross fees, and instructor costs.

Who is eligible to receive DRC funded lifeguard training?

DRC funded lifeguard training is available to individuals who plan to work as lifeguards for the DRC. This ensures that future staff members can gain the required training without financial barriers while helping us maintain a strong, well-prepared team.

Thanks to a generous $20,000 community match, every dollar you give goes twice as far!

Frequently Asked Questions

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