Swim Across America: Difference between revisions

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'''Swim Across America''' ('''SAA''') is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for [[cancer]] research, prevention, and treatment through [[swimming]]-related events. With the motto "Making Waves to Fight Cancer," SAA organizes and sponsors swim events across the [[United States]] to support cancer research at some of the country’s leading institutions.
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Swim Across America}}
 
[[File:SAA_Logo_New_2013.jpg|thumb|right|Swim Across America logo]]
 
'''Swim Across America''' is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for cancer research, prevention, and treatment through swimming-related events. Founded in 1987, Swim Across America has grown to include numerous open water swims and pool swims across the United States, engaging thousands of participants and volunteers each year.


==History==
==History==
Swim Across America was founded in 1987 by a group of college friends and [[swimming]] enthusiasts who wanted to make a difference in the fight against cancer. The organization's first event was a swim across the [[Long Island Sound]], which raised more money and attracted more participants than the founders had anticipated. Encouraged by this success, SAA expanded to host swims in various locations across the country. Over the years, Swim Across America has grown significantly, both in the number of events it sponsors and in the amount of money it raises for cancer research.
Swim Across America was established in 1987 by [[Jeff Keith]] and [[Matt Vossler]], who envisioned using swimming as a means to raise money for cancer research. The first event was held in [[Nantucket Sound]], and it set the stage for future events that would expand across the country.
 
==Mission==
The mission of Swim Across America is to "make waves to fight cancer." The organization achieves this by hosting swimming events that raise funds for cancer research and clinical trials at major research institutions. Swim Across America partners with hospitals and research centers to ensure that the funds raised are used effectively to advance cancer treatment and prevention.


==Events==
==Events==
SAA events range from pool swims to open water swims and are designed to accommodate swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Participants can choose to swim individually or as part of a team. Each event is organized locally but supported by the national organization, which provides resources and guidance to ensure success. The most notable SAA events include swims in the [[San Francisco Bay]], the [[Hudson River]], and the [[Boston Harbor]], among others.
Swim Across America hosts a variety of events, including:
 
* '''Open Water Swims''': These are held in various locations, including [[San Francisco Bay]], [[Boston Harbor]], and [[Lake Michigan]]. Participants can choose from different distances, ranging from half-mile to several miles.
 
* '''Pool Swims''': These events take place in local pools and are often organized by schools, clubs, or community groups. They provide an opportunity for swimmers of all ages and abilities to participate.


==Fundraising and Impact==
* '''Virtual Swims''': In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Swim Across America introduced virtual swims, allowing participants to swim in their own pools or open water locations while raising funds online.
The funds raised by SAA events support cancer research, clinical trials, and patient programs at prestigious cancer research institutions and hospitals across the United States. These institutions include the [[Dana-Farber Cancer Institute]], the [[Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center]], and the [[Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center]], to name a few. Since its inception, Swim Across America has raised millions of dollars, contributing significantly to advances in cancer treatment and patient care.


==How to Participate==
==Impact==
Individuals interested in participating in an SAA event can register through the Swim Across America website. Participants are encouraged to fundraise in the lead-up to the event, with many swimmers soliciting donations from friends, family, and colleagues. SAA provides resources and support to help swimmers reach their fundraising goals.
Since its inception, Swim Across America has raised over $100 million for cancer research. The funds have supported groundbreaking research and clinical trials at institutions such as [[Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center]], [[Johns Hopkins Hospital]], and [[Seattle Cancer Care Alliance]].


==Volunteering==
==Participation==
In addition to swimming, there are numerous volunteer opportunities available at SAA events, including event planning, safety support, and day-of-event roles. Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of each swim and in SAA’s mission to fight cancer.
Swim Across America events are open to swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Participants can join as individuals or as part of a team. Many events also include opportunities for non-swimmers to volunteer or support the cause through fundraising.


==Conclusion==
==Related pages==
Swim Across America has established itself as a unique and impactful organization in the fight against cancer. Through its swimming events, SAA not only raises significant funds for cancer research but also fosters a community of individuals committed to making a difference. As SAA continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its mission of making waves to fight cancer.
* [[Cancer research]]
* [[Non-profit organization]]
* [[Open water swimming]]
* [[Fundraising]]


[[Category:Non-profit organizations in the United States]]
[[Category:Non-profit organizations based in the United States]]
[[Category:Cancer organizations]]
[[Category:Cancer organizations]]
[[Category:Swimming events]]
[[Category:Swimming competitions]]
{{cancer-stub}}

Latest revision as of 12:01, 15 February 2025


Swim Across America logo

Swim Across America is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for cancer research, prevention, and treatment through swimming-related events. Founded in 1987, Swim Across America has grown to include numerous open water swims and pool swims across the United States, engaging thousands of participants and volunteers each year.

History[edit]

Swim Across America was established in 1987 by Jeff Keith and Matt Vossler, who envisioned using swimming as a means to raise money for cancer research. The first event was held in Nantucket Sound, and it set the stage for future events that would expand across the country.

Mission[edit]

The mission of Swim Across America is to "make waves to fight cancer." The organization achieves this by hosting swimming events that raise funds for cancer research and clinical trials at major research institutions. Swim Across America partners with hospitals and research centers to ensure that the funds raised are used effectively to advance cancer treatment and prevention.

Events[edit]

Swim Across America hosts a variety of events, including:

  • Pool Swims: These events take place in local pools and are often organized by schools, clubs, or community groups. They provide an opportunity for swimmers of all ages and abilities to participate.
  • Virtual Swims: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Swim Across America introduced virtual swims, allowing participants to swim in their own pools or open water locations while raising funds online.

Impact[edit]

Since its inception, Swim Across America has raised over $100 million for cancer research. The funds have supported groundbreaking research and clinical trials at institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

Participation[edit]

Swim Across America events are open to swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Participants can join as individuals or as part of a team. Many events also include opportunities for non-swimmers to volunteer or support the cause through fundraising.

Related pages[edit]