The purpose of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago's (BGCC) Aquatics Department is to provide programming, services, and facilities to support the recreational and fitness needs of the community. BGCC is committed to making swimming part of the basic life skills taught at our Clubs with the goal of reducing water-related injuries, particularly in communities where children are most at risk. Our vision is to develop comprehensive swimming facilities with innovative programs that allow individuals of all demographics to participate in Learn-to-Swim, Aquatic Team Sports, and JR Lifeguarding all while learning lifelong skills in and out of the water. As BGCC envisions creating lifesaving, life-changing, and lifelong Clubs for youth, we strive to provide aquatics opportunities for all in the Chicagoland area. The Learn-To-Swim program is based on a logical, six-level progression that helps swimmers six years of age and up, develop their water safety, survival, and swimming skills. It is designed to give participants a positive learning experience. The American Red Cross offers this comprehensive, developmentally appropriate swimming and water safety program that teaches youth how to swim skillfully and safely and think and act safely in, on, and around the water.