The Foundation for Autism Collaboration and Empowerment is partnering with the Y.M.C.A. of Greater Kansas City to provide life-saving water therapy services to children with Autism. On July 27, 2021, John and Savina Liberto spoke at the opening of the new Kirk Family Y.M.C.A. in downtown Kansas City. At that event, they announced a new partnership with the Y.M.C.A. and a corresponding grant to begin the Water Safety Initiative. This collaborative effort pairs swim instructors with children on the Autism spectrum. Instructors aim to build water safety and introductory swim skills. More importantly, F.A.C.E.’s grant covers the corresponding costs to families.
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children on the spectrum. Co-founder Savina Liberto states, “This vital partnership provides potentially life-saving water safety skills necessary for children on the spectrum to enjoy waterplay safely.” The pilot program will begin at the Y.M.C.A. in North Kansas City with plans to expand throughout the Greater Kansas City Area.
UPDATE- At the end of 2022, F.A.C.E. has provided over 1,200 water safety lessons impacting nearly 50 families and has welcomed students from North Kansas City High School to participate in weekly water safety swim lessons!
Please contact F.A.C.E. or the North Kansas City Y.M.C.A. for more details!
-John and Savina Liberto
