Why do we teach about pools? Refugees may have spent most of their lives in refugee camps or in countries where they never saw a pool. Many refugees arrive in Tucson without knowing how to swim or how to play safely in and around pools. Upon arrival, refugees are excited to find that their apartment complex has a pool but don't know how to use it safely. This has resulted in many near drowning incidents.  In 2011 a refugee boy drowned in a local apartment pool. 

Information about pools: Iskashitaa works to create informational flyers about safe pool use in refugee's native languages. This information can then be posted at apartment complexes, in classrooms, or given to refugees. If you speak an African, Asian, or Middle Eastern language and are interested in helping with translating please Contact Us.

Swim Lessons: Iskashitaa volunteers assist in the running of pool safety and swimming classes. All swim programs have certified lifeguards and teachers but volunteers are necessary to help give rides, assist in the pool, and teach on deck safety lessons! Refugees 8 years and older are welcome to attend and need not have a bathing suit. Iskashitaa recognizes the cultural differences of refugee students and welcomes shorts and T-shirt as a swimsuit alternative.

Iskashitaa staff organizes scholarship funds and staff are continuously looking for funding to support this life saving program. With the help of First United Methodist Church and the Tucson YMCA, 2012 marked the restarting of our swimming program after a 3 year lapse in funding!

If you are interested in visiting or supporting this program, please contact us!