Accessibility Bridge Down Syndrome Swim Clinic Breaks Barriers

Charles County Charitable Trust staff had the privilege of witnessing the Accessibility Bridge Corporation in action this August as they broke down barriers to inclusion during 3-day Down Syndrome Swim Clinic. The clinic focused on essential water safety skills such as floating, treading water, and reaching the pool’s edge to prevent drowning. Participants also enjoy team-building activities like yoga, playground free time, sharing meals, and making videos alongside fellow swimmers and college-level swim instructors who generously volunteered their time.

The event was led by a competitive coaching team from Nations Capital Swim Club Alexandria and supported by paralympic swimmers, including Lawrence Sapp, son of Accessibility Bridge founder, Dee Sapp. Recognizing that muscle strength is often a challenge for individuals with Down Syndrome, the clinic also featured a sports chiropractor who guided participants and families through stretching routines before and after swimming, helping build strength and reduce discomfort. One participant’s parent shared with the Trust that their son had been hesitant to enter the water at the start of the clinic, but by the end of Day 2, he was swimming laps in his own lane—without assistance! At the conclusion of the clinic, each swimmer proudly received a custom swag bag filled with swim essentials and a certificate of completion for Level One Swim.