This week we are highlighting the pathways of an incredible family who decided to learn how to swim together and the leaders who made it happen. Jax Rupert, the Robert D. Fowler Family Y Aquatics Director, shares how he first got connected to the YMCA. Jennifer Mullen, a passionate swim instructor, shares how she gives back to her community through teaching swim lessons. Ayanna, shares how she encouraged her family to all learn how to swim because she wanted her sons to be safe around any body of water. This episode is full of family and dedicated individuals who made these multi-generational swim lessons happen.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:00] Aquatics Director, Jax Rupert became a lifeguard at 16. Living very close to a Y in his youth, Jax became a swim instructor and a swim team coach as well. His love for water and the Y

• [1:45] Jennifer Mullen sees her time at the Y as a way to give back to the community. She has seen first hand the difference the Y is making in the community.

• [2:40] Ayanna decided to sign her two sons up for swim lessons before the summer, so that she knew they had the safety skills they needed to be safe in the water.

• [3:20] Gwendolyn’s first connection with the Y was taking swim lessons with her daughter.

• [3:45] Nicholas was introduced to the Y by playing basketball after school with his friends.

• [4:30] Ryan shares how the swim lessons were his first Y experience and he loves playing basketball with his brother.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• From the young age of 16, Jax Rupert took on as many roles in the Y’s aquatics department as possible. This began a 16 year long career with the Y.

• The Y’s aquatic center is helping people from the community learn how to swim, water safety, and encourages a unique way to stay physically active.

• Ayanna was able to sign up her family for a Y membership. This has brought them together as a family and inspired each of them to try new things and to build their relationships through their swim lessons.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Jax Ruppert

With a lifelong commitment to the YMCA, Jax began his journey at 16 as a lifeguard, progressing to roles as a swim instructor and swim team coach. Passionate about teaching and inspiring others, he transitioned into the role of Aquatics Director. His focus is on training and developing his staff to excel and taking immense pride in their growth and achievements. Committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, Jax spearheads drowning prevention programs, starting with educating parents on the critical importance of water safety.