The Friends of Aquatics is a group of people who love to swim.
And they want everyone in Colorado Springs to have the chance to learn and enjoy the water, regardless of the economic condition.
That’s why the group founded in 1998 and has, ever since, paid for poor kids to Learn to Swim.
The group also has supported other swimming programs for seniors, handicapped, Junior Life Guard training and others.
Now, the group is trying to keep Colorado Springs swimming pools afloat in the face of a budget crisis that threatens to pull the plug on all six pools.
So they are trying to raise $250,000 and convince the City Council they can operate the two indoor pools — Memorial Park and Cottonwood Creek — as well as the Wilson Ranch outdoor pool in Mountain Shadows.
Here’s a look at the brochures they are circulating:
In addition, they have printed postcards seeking donations. Here is one of the cards.
They are taking questions at 385-6032 and will respond to inquiries e-mailed to FriendsofAquatics@gmail.com
The primary movers behind the Friend group are Deb Barry and Daisy Chun Rhodes.
Barry retired in December after 20 years running the city’s aquatics programs.
Rhodes is a longtime city activist, serving on the Parks Advisory Board, and a founder of the Friends group back in 1998.
Both are passionate about the pools. They are doing everything they can think of to raise money for the pools. They are seeking grants. Asking for donations. Even selling coffee to raise money. Here’s a look at their offerings:
They have until March 31 to convince the City Council their plan will work to at least keep the three pools open. They are hoping to get more time from the council to pursue their fundraising efforts.
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FRIENDS of AQUATICS REFUSES TO THROW IN THE TOWEL ON CITY POOLS is a post from: Side Streets
