The Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District has launched a free Community Lifeguard Program at Mount Rainier Pool, offering youth and young adults training in swimming skills, aquatic fitness and water safety while preparing them for potential lifeguard certification.
Upcoming sessions are scheduled for Feb. 24 through April 2, April 14 through May 14, and May 19 through June 25.
The program, funded through a King County Parks grant, is open to individuals ages 14 to 24 and does not require employment with the district. Organizers say the goal is to remove financial barriers while building confidence and career pathways in aquatics.
The core component, Community Lifeguard Preparedness Training, is a six week course designed for people interested in lifeguarding or aquatic careers who may not yet meet traditional pre test requirements. The training focuses on swimming endurance, deep water comfort, treading skills and foundational water safety concepts, along with structured games and activities to reinforce learning.
“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.”
Classes meet twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 4 p.m., with each session running six weeks. Participants may repeat sessions, pause between sessions or advance based on readiness. Instructors and assistants provide individualized coaching throughout the program.
Participants who meet program benchmarks may be recommended for free certification level training, including lifeguard certification, recertification, swim instructor training and instructor level courses offered at Mount Rainier Pool. Graduates are encouraged to pursue opportunities with local pools, parks and recreation agencies, nonprofits and waterfront programs across the region.
The district describes the program as a regional investment in public safety, workforce development and equitable access to aquatic training.
The program is free through a grant from King County Amateur and Youth Sports.
For more information or to register, click here, or call (206) 824-4722. Main contact is Emmitt Sevores, aquatics coordinator.
Mount Rainier Pool is located at 22722 19th Ave. S. in Des Moines:
