Lifeguard Certification Class Builds Leadership Skills, Expands Summer Employment Opportunities for Local Teens

South Shore YMCA offering a comprehensive Lifeguard Certification Course over February school vacation

Registration is now open for the South Shore YMCA’s February vacation lifeguard training class. The 30-hour course provides teens an opportunity to become American Red Cross certified lifeguards during their school break. The class will run at the Y’s new Quincy Branch February 18th – 21st from 1:00 – 9:00pm each day and includes first aid and CPR training. Participants, who must be 15-years-old by the class’ conclusion, will receive a lifeguard certification valid for two years upon their successful completion of the course.

Stephanie Higgins, Senior Aquatics Director at the Y’s Quincy Branch, says benefits of becoming a certified lifeguard go beyond keeping people safe in the water.

“Becoming a certified lifeguard opens up great summer and part-time employment opportunities for teens,” says Higgins. “It also gives young people an opportunity to develop skills and experience that will be valued by colleges and future employers.  Lifeguarding provides experience working in teams, it builds confidence and leadership skills.”

The South Shore Y’s Emilson Branch in Hanover is also offering a lifeguard certification class during February vacation week. Both branches offer a variety of American Red Cross certification classes year-round. Schedules and course details can be found on the Y’s website.

Additional information on the Y’s February vacation lifeguard class, including fees and registration details, can be found at ssymca.org. For questions, please contact Stephanie Higgins at shiggins@ssymca.org or 617-479-8500 ext. 4740.

About the South Shore YMCA

The South Shore YMCA is a nonprofit association committed to strengthening our communities by nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. Throughout the South Shore community, the SSYMCA engages more than 65,000 members and participants, nearly two-thirds of whom are children and teens, in over 100 different programs.  The Y strives to serve our entire community and provides financial assistance to ensure every child, family and individual has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive through South Shore YMCA membership, programs and services. ssymca.org