Hello, Swimdo Family!
As the vibrant colors of March unfold in Bali, we at Swimdo are excited to share our latest updates with you. Embracing the spirit of community and growth, this month has been a beautiful blend of celebration, accomplishment, and new beginnings.
Celebrating Galungan: A Time of Togetherness
Last month, Bali shimmered with the festive spirit of Galungan, a significant Balinese holiday symbolizing the victory of dharma over adharma. It was a week-long celebration, and in honor of this cultural cornerstone, we paused our swimming classes. This break allowed our students and staff to fully engage in the festivities and spend quality time with their families. Observing such cultural traditions not only strengthens our team’s bond with the community but also reinforces our commitment to respecting and integrating local customs into our mission.
Milestone in Tampaksiring: Near Completion of Our Mission
We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone: we have almost completed teaching all the children in Tampaksiring and the nearby villages! This accomplishment is a testament to the relentless efforts of our dedicated team and the enthusiastic participation of the children. It reflects our core belief that every child has the right to learn essential swimming skills, a belief that drives us to reach as many young learners as possible.
Moving Forward: Transition to Keramas Park
Looking ahead, we are preparing for a significant transition. After the observance of Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence on March 11th, marking the Balinese New Year, we will be moving back to Keramas Park. This move is more than just a change in location; it symbolizes our expanding reach. In Keramas Park, we will be teaching children from six surrounding villages. This expansion not only allows us to touch more lives but also strengthens our commitment to preventing child drowning in Bali.
Rote Island Initiative: Empowering Local Communities
In our quest to create a lasting impact, we are thrilled to share that our team will travel to Rote Island at the end of this month. This visit is particularly special as we will supervise the local volunteers who are starting their first independent survival swimming class. Empowering local communities to take charge of such life-saving skills is a crucial part of our mission. By training local volunteers and supporting them in setting up independent programs, we are planting seeds of change that will continue to flourish long after we have moved to new locations.
Looking Ahead with Hope and Determination
As March progresses, we are filled with a sense of achievement and excitement for what the future holds. Our journey is not just about teaching swimming; it’s about building a safer, more aware, and empowered community. We are deeply grateful for the support of our donors, volunteers, and the communities we serve. Your trust and encouragement fuel our determination to continue our work.
As always, we thank you for your continued support because we could not do anything without the trust, belief and generosity of people like you!
Sincerely,
Neal