IM Program
The IM Program was built on a simple idea: when kids feel confident in the water, they expand their confidence to every part of their lives.
Inspired by Michael Phelps’ journey, this program combines water safety, physical activity, and personal growth in a way that is supportive and fun.
Whats Inside
the IM Program?
Each part of the IM Program works together to help kids move, think, and feel better through swimming, wellness education, and goal-setting. Every session is designed to help kids feel stronger in the water and more confident in themselves.
Water Safety
Around the world, over 300,000 people drown every year. More than half of those are children. IM Safe is working to change this most disturbing of statistics.
The IM Program’s water safety curriculum provides in-water swim lessons to allow each participant the opportunity to become comfortable and confident in the water.
The lessons include basic water instruction progressive levels:
IM Comfortable
IM Moving
IM Strong
IM Confident
Mental Health
The IM Program’s mental health curriculum provides classroom lessons that teach participants preventative mental health skills to become comfortable and confident in their everyday lives. Developed with health experts from Nemours KidsHealth.org, this interactive program promotes overall well-being.
The lessons cover mental wellness skills, healthy eating habits, exercise, and goal-setting guidance all grouped into the following categories:
IM Comfortable
IM Moving
IM Strong
IM Confident
Where You Can Find
the IM Program
The IM Program is available around the world through trusted partners like Boys & Girls Clubs and Special Olympics. These collaborations make it possible for us to reach young people in familiar, supportive environments. It provides them access to experiences that can change their lives, all within their own communities.
While each location has its unique vibe, the mission remains the same: to equip kids with skills they can carry with them for a lifetime. Some of the most inspiring stories come from these clubs, where kids who once felt unsure in the water now lead with newfound confidence.
Learn More & Get Involved
The IM Program goes beyond learning how to swim and excelling at it; it’s about building a supportive, inclusive community for every child.
Whether you’re looking to learn more, partner with us, or get involved, there are many opportunities to help expand our reach and make a lasting impact.
The Boys and Girls Club of America has the access and resources needed to implement our programs. We are honored to work with an organization that does so much for the youth in our communities. By working with a reputable organization like the Boys and Girls Club, we can introduce our IM programs to youth from all walks of life.
We work with Special Olympics International to adapt the IM Program for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Because all athletes deserve the opportunity to train and compete at high levels, our program provides high-quality training for Special Olympics swim coaches and helps them give their athletes the opportunity and encouragement to become more comfortable, confident, and faster in the water.
Bring the IM Program to Your Community
Want to run the IM Program at your club or organization?
Here’s what to expect as a partner:
- Easy-to-follow training and materials
- Ongoing support built around your team
- A flexible program that grows with your needs
How to Apply
- Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria. (Details coming soon)
- Submit your grant application online.