Grant-funded training removes cost barriers while building water safety, fitness, and career pathways

DES MOINES, WASHINGTON / ACCESS Newswire / February 12, 2026 / The Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District is launching a free Community Lifeguard Program at the Mount Rainier Pool, providing youth and young adults with accessible training designed to build swimming skills, aquatic fitness, water safety knowledge, and readiness for future lifeguard certification.

The program's core offering, Community Lifeguard Preparedness Training, is a six-week course designed for individuals who are interested in lifeguarding or aquatic careers but may not yet meet traditional lifeguard pre-test requirements. The training supports non-traditional swimmers by focusing on confidence, conditioning, and progressive skill development in a supportive and engaging environment.

The Community Lifeguard Program is fully funded through a King County Parks grant, allowing participants to enroll at no cost. The program is open to individuals ages 14 to 24, and participation does not require employment with the Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District.

Classes meet twice per week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., with each session running for six weeks. Participants may repeat sessions, pause between sessions, or advance based on readiness. Instruction emphasizes aquatic fitness, swimming endurance, deep-water comfort, treading skills, and foundational water safety concepts. Sessions also include structured games and activities that reinforce skills through movement, teamwork, and real-time application.

Upcoming sessions include February 24 through April 2, April 14 through May 14, and May 19 through June 25. Classes are staffed to ensure safety and individualized coaching, with instructors and assistants supporting participants throughout the program.

Participants who meet program benchmarks may be recommended to advance into free certification-level training, including lifeguard certification, recertification, swim instructor training, and instructor-level courses offered at the Mount Rainier Pool. Graduates are encouraged to pursue opportunities with local pools, parks and recreation agencies, nonprofits, and waterfront programs across the region.

"This program is about removing barriers and meeting people where they are," said Scott Deschenes, District General Manager for the Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District. "We are building water safety, fitness, and confidence while creating real opportunities for young people to move into lifeguarding and aquatic careers that serve the entire community."

The District views the Community Lifeguard Program as a regional investment in public safety, workforce development, and equitable access to aquatic training.

For more information or to register, visit www.mtrainierpool.com or contact the Mount Rainier Pool at (206) 824-4722.

SOURCE: Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District