ICW Swim Testimonials
Editor’s Note: Following are comments from recent participants in ICW’s Sunday learn-to-swim and community swim sessions at Brooklyn College.
The low cost of the swim sessions is crucial. ICW works hard to make access to the pool and aquatics education as barrier-free as possible. It's remarkable! You get the feeling that they'll do absolutely whatever it takes to get everyone—kids, older folks, teenagers—in the water.
They're flexible as well, which helps people feel welcome and included. If someone can't make it to the 10am session, they say, come to the 11am! Just get in the water!
Our community needs access to aquatics. We sometimes forget that we're so close to the ocean, but then are painfully reminded every summer when we hear about drownings in the Rockaways and Coney Island.
Stefanie Koseff, adult learner with a child learner
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Swimming isn’t just a recreational activity—it’s a life-saving skill that too many kids in our neighborhood don’t have the opportunity to learn. ICW's local swim program has provided affordable, accessible lessons that ensure our children and adults are safe around water. It also offers a fun, healthy way for the community to stay active.
Lupe Ramsey, adult learner with a child learner
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We are grateful for the openness and flexibility with which ICW approaches the program—all with the goal of getting as many New Yorkers in the pool as possible.
Stacey McMath, parent of a child learner
Mohammad Abdinur, Muntaha Hussein, Aisha Abdinur and Xaire Blackman.
Photo: M. Randazzo
This program is more than just a recreational activity, it is a vital life skill that every child and family should have access to.
Muntaha Hussein, adult learner with two child learners
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The sessions are more affordable than any other we had researched in Brooklyn and—more importantly—the staff has all been dedicated, kind and patient with our girls. They are very communicative and willing to talk with you about your child’s specific needs. On top of all of that they let the parents swim while their child is in class!
Janae Jones-Sylvester, parent of two child learners
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The classes are goal-oriented, and the instructors take the students to the next level by meeting them where they are. They also make lessons accessible to everyone no matter what age level at an affordable level for working families.
Brian Drye, parent of two child learners
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Adeola Ajala and Ray Li. Photo: M. Randazzo
Before joining I had no experience in the water. But within a few months, I learned how to swim. The class is so effective that I continue to refine my technique and grow more confident with each session. I’ve even referred others—both beginners and those overcoming past water-related trauma—because I know how transformative this experience can be.
Coach Otis is truly exceptional. He not only teaches the mechanics of swimming but also instills a belief in one’s own abilities. His patience, encouragement and expertise make him one of the best coaches I’ve ever had.
This class has been life-changing and I’m so grateful for the journey!
Adeola Ajala, adult learner
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The instructors are great at creating a quiet focus even with multiple classes going. You can tell the kids feel supported and safe enough to really test out their new skills.
Elizabeth Mirarchi, parent of a child learner
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The supportive learning environment has helped [our daughter] build confidence in the water, and the skilled, patient instructors have made learning both fun and effective.
Erin Longbothum, parent of a child learner
Jacob Reyes teaching adult learners. Photo: M. Randazzo
I am taking adult beginner swim for the second time. I have nearly drowned three times in my life. Being a senior, if not now then when?
Last semester was very difficult for me. I thought I would die. I was the second oldest person in a large class. ICW then broke the class down; Otis separated the least accomplished of us according to ability, and Jacob stepped in.
When the course ended, I knew I was not ready to go so I re-enrolled or beginning adult swim. I am now very glad that I stuck it out. Classes are much smaller and better for me. Even though both Otis and Jacob are excellent teachers, instruction is just like in public school. Students do better not only in smaller classes, but when administration can also differentiate instruction.
I can now float, tread water, and swim free style for 3/4 of the pool. At my age, I feel accomplished.
Beverly Marshack, adult learner
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In our time with ICW, my son has gone from doggy-paddling in the shallow end of the pool to leaping into the deep end and swimming multiple laps. He loves it and I’m confident that he has learned how to keep himself safe if he falls in the water.
Beatrice Robbins, adult learner with a child learner
Denis Sandoval with children Denis and Natalia. Photo: M. Randazzo
I am not only amazed at [my son’s] progress, but I am also extremely grateful to the instructors. They are skilled in the way they conduct each session and cater to kids’ specific needs.
Kassaundra Johnson, parent of a child learner
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I’m grateful for this experience seeing that previously I didn't know how to swim. I like being able to learn with other students as well, it shows that I am not alone.
Nadiyah Washington, adult learner
Otis Alves instructing adult learners. Photo: M. Randazzo
My son has been swimming with ICW for almost two years, and his progress has been amazing. And for me? After just three weeks of lessons, I made it to the deep end—something I never thought possible!
Jasmine Ramsey, adult learner with a child learner
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This class has given me something invaluable: the confidence to enjoy swimming with my family.
Vince Parker, adult learner
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After only three lessons, I'm jumping in the deep end to swim AND learning to tread water. I'm so proud of myself and thankful for ICW and my instructor, Otis.
Cee Brown, adult learner
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I am wholeheartedly in support of the community swim program. It provides access to a publicly owned and funded facility for all local residents regardless of means. This program embodies community spirit that makes New York City a great place to live.
Steven Lenard, community swim participant
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The ICW Community Swim has been a true blessing for our Midwood community. As a parent of two young children who are learning to swim, I am incredibly grateful for this resource. Swimming lessons in this neighborhood can be prohibitively expensive, but ICW provides a welcoming and accessible space for my children to practice and gain confidence in the water.
Swimming is a vital life skill, and this initiative is truly saving lives—especially for families who may not have the means to afford formal lessons. I deeply appreciate the impact ICW has had on our neighborhood. Thank you for making this possible!
Annet Romain, community swim participant
Melissandre Chrispin and Hasani Griffith with Jacob Reyes. Photo: M. Randazzo
My son and I were very hesitant about swimming. Once we started this program we were able to feel comfortable—all due to our instructor, Jacob. He is amazing at what he does!
I recommend anyone to take part in these swimming session; they guide you through every step of the process.
Melissandre Chrispin, adult learner with a child learner
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The swim lessons here have been absolutely fantastic, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the dedication, patience, and encouragement from the instructors. They’ve made learning to swim such a fun and positive experience for Zara, and it’s incredible to see her progress with each lesson.
The staff is always welcoming, supportive, and truly invested in the kids' success. The pool itself is wonderful—clean, well-maintained, and the perfect environment for building confidence in the water. Zara looks forward to every lesson, and we love watching her grow stronger and more skilled each time. We would love for you guys to continue this program for the community.
Thank you for all that you do—we appreciate you more than words can say!
Portia Niles, parent of a child learner
Mishkwat, Elaf and Wajiha Karamm Ahmed Habib with their mother, Bushra Bashir. Photo: M. Randazzo
My kids absolutely enjoy it. They are always eager to go swimming and constantly show a lively interest in learning. I was inspired to join after seeing the progress my kids were making. We all know how much swimming can be beneficial for us; it keeps us active and it is a great source of exercise.
Thank you for this opportunity to swim.
Bushra Bashir, adult learner with four children learners
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This Community Swim program is highly essential. There's a major deficit of lifeguards in New York City. How can this be remedied if swim programs aren't being included into their school curriculum?
Also access to community, club and private pools. Grants, funding from government to assist financially in support of future swimmers and their instructors is needed.
Swimming is the ONLY sport that can save your LIFE
Jeanel Moril, adult learner with a child learner