Aqua-Tots Swim School is announcing a partnership with Phoenix Children's Hospital through a donation of $25,000.

This collaboration aims to support the hospital's mission of providing hope, healing, and the best healthcare for children and their families, according to a news release.

Aqua-Tots Swim Schools, whose flagship school and headquarters office are in Mesa, is dedicated to saving lives by teaching children worldwide to become safe and confident swimmers for life. By partnering with Phoenix Children's, Aqua-Tots aims to extend its impact beyond swim lessons and contribute to the well-being of even more children in the community.

Aqua-Tots has locations throughout the Valley, including in Peoria.

"Partnering with Phoenix Children's has been a dream of ours for a long time," said Ron Sciarro, co-founder of Aqua-Tots Swim Schools. "The heroic work they do in our community reaches far beyond the Valley, and it's an honor to work together to prevent childhood drowning."

Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children one to four years old, and in Arizona, young children are drowning at almost double the national average. According to Phoenix Children’s, for every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal, water-related injuries. These injuries include severe brain damage and long-term disabilities.

The $25,000 donation will support Phoenix Children's in their exceptional care, innovative research, and advanced medical education. Their vision includes offering comprehensive care across ages, communities, and specialties, investing in innovative research, advancing education and training, and advocating for the health and well-being of children and families.

"We are incredibly grateful for Aqua-Tots Swim Schools' generous donation," said Tim Harrison, vice president of corporate development and special events at Phoenix Children’s. "Their contribution will enable us to continue delivering the highest quality care to our patients and make a lasting impact on their lives."

In addition to the monetary donation, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools is offering a special benefit to Phoenix Children's employees. They will receive a 20% discount on swim lessons at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools across the Valley, further emphasizing the shared commitment to water safety.

“Drowning prevention is important for every family, including first responders,” shared Heather Preston, co-founder and chief experience and philanthropy officer at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools. “All of our franchisees Valley-wide are grateful for the commitment and dedication Phoenix Children’s provides, and our schools are excited to jump on board to help keep more children safe throughout Phoenix and the surrounding communities.”

Together, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools and Phoenix Children's are combining their expertise and resources, and aim to create a safer environment for children and families, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn essential swimming skills.

For more information about Aqua-Tots Swim Schools and their proven learn-to-swim program, please visit aqua-tots.com.