Two new grants will continue funding two important Levite Jewish Community Center initiatives: $11,000 from the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham to support Swim School and $4,800 from the Birmingham Kiwanis Foundation to help accommodate J Camp participants who have developmental and/or physical disabilities.
“These grants highlight two programs that epitomize what we strive to do here at The J: serving all members of our community,” says CEO Brooke Bowles. “And we’re especially grateful for these awards today in light of so many granting organizations being forced to cut back on their support due to recent decisions by the federal government.”
Swim School
This fall will mark the third season of Swim School, which provides swim lessons for underserved children. The participation fee of just $25 for 12 hours of lessons ensures that children from low-income households receive a quality swim lesson experience and develop life-saving skills. The full price for a similar experience at The J costs more than $700.
“This program has really helped both of my children with learning how to swim and how to swim with their heads under water,” wrote a parent in a program survey. “I have really appreciated this whole team and program for helping my kids. Thanks for all you all have done.”
This year our pioneering I3 Academy participants will be joined for their third year in the pool by students from Norwood and Phillips academies and Girls Inc.
J Camp
The $4,800 grant from the Birmingham Kiwanis Foundation, a repeat of last year’s award, will support The J’s ongoing initiative to provide traditional day camp opportunities for children with developmental and/or physical disabilities.
“Camp is an opportunity to engage in enriching experiences, make new friends, and enjoy time away from the structure of the school year,” explains Barbara Traweek, senior director of youth services and early education. “It also allows children to interact with and develop relationships with adults and teenage camp counselors who are outside of their family and social networks.
“We’re excited and thankful that Kiwanis will continue to help neurodivergent children participate fully in social, recreational, and educational activities with peers of similar ages.” The grant will fund two aides for three weeks each, allowing up to 10 campers with disabilities to attend.
Beyond its benefits for participants, J Camp is an important resource for working parents. Access to reliable and beneficial childcare for school-aged children during the summer months is critical for families with single parents or when both adults in a household work outside the home.