Published on March 14, 2025
Kids ages 6 to 12 taking swim lessons at the Merriam Community Center will receive a free book called “Swim Team” once they complete their sessions.
It’s part of a collaboration between the Merriam Park, Recreation & Community Center Foundation and a former Merriam Dolphins swim team alumnus, Steve Sears.
The book follows middle schooler Bree as she faces her fear of swimming through courage, heart, and friendship. “Swim Team” has received many awards, including the 2023 Coretta Scott King Award.
Sears saw the book as an opportunity to promote swim lessons and swim team participation to children in the community. All youth swimmers will receive the free book with an encouraging message to join the Merriam Dolphins swim team.
The books are paid for by the Dolphin Fund, a section of the nonprofit Merriam Park, Recreation & Community Center Foundation. The Dolphin Fund also helps low-income Merriam families with swim lessons and swim team fees.
“I’m grateful to the Foundation and Dolphin Fund for their support and collaboration on this project,” said Merriam Parks and Recreation Director Anna Slocum. “It rewards children for completing their swim lessons and encourages them to continue developing lifelong survival skills.”
Learn more about the Merriam Dolphin swim team.
Sign up for swim lessons.