JWB Invests in Adaptive Swim Lessons

News Channel 8 highlighted the importance of adaptive swim lessons for neurodivergent children, made possible through JWB’s investments. The lessons are designed to help children with autism or autism spectrum disorder.

The story features insights from JWB Child Safety and Prevention Lead Mindy Taylor, YMCA of the Suncoast President and CEO Christian Engle, and Aquatics Director Taylor Dickson, alongside a mother whose five-year-old son, Blake, is enrolled in adaptive lessons.

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children, ages 1 to 4, and it’s the second leading cause of unintentional injury death.  So far in 2026, 56 kids have died from drowning in Florida, which consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of drowning fatalities.

While many children are naturally drawn to water, neurodivergent children can face an even greater risk of drowning because of that attraction. In fact, children who are autistic or on the autism spectrum are 160 times more likely to drown than neurotypical children.

Each year, JWB invests $100,000 in swim lessons and water safety programs that serve more than 2,500 Pinellas County children. Through partnerships with local organizations, including YMCA of the Suncoast, children with diverse learning needs have greater access to adaptive swim instruction led by specially trained instructors.

Watch the segment in its entirety below