Vision and Strategic Framework

OUR PURPOSE

To prevent drowning.

OUR VISION

A California where everyone is safe in and around the water.

OUR POSITIONING STATEMENT

We connect, convene, and coordinate California’s drowning prevention and water safety community to work together on effective solutions to prevent drowning.

WE AGREE

Drowning is preventable: This is a problem with solutions and an engaged community ready to tackle the problem.

We are strongest together: Collaboration and deep commitment to collective action will result in the greatest impact.

Everyone has the right to enjoy the water safely: While anyone can drown, no one should. Every Californian deserves to learn to swim, to access safe aquatic places, and embrace the opportunities that come with water competence.

STRATEGIC PILLARS

Connect
Grow an inclusive, multisectoral drowning prevention network in California.

Convene
Host a world-class annual drowning prevnetion and water safety Summit.

Coordinate
Facilitate and empower collaborative action aligned with the California Water Safety Strategy

Cultivate
Ensure organizational excellence and sustainability for lasting impact

LEADERSHIP

Megan Ferraro, CWSC Chair, Executive Director, The ZAC Foundation

Rob Williams, CWSC Co-Vice Chair & Treasurer, Retired, Newport Beach Fire

Lydie Gutfeld, CWSC, Co-Vice Chair, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services , City of San Bernardino

John Abdou, CWSC Director, Associate Athletic Director, Health, Wellness & Sport Performance

Karen Cohn, CWSC Director, The ZAC Foundation

Will Koon, CWSC, Vice Chair, PhD Researcher

Kris Lev-Twombly, CWSC Director, President and Chief Executive Officer for the California State Alliance of YMCAs

Julie Lopiccolo, CWSC Director, Secretary, Jasper Ray Foundation

Dr. Mark Simonian, CWSC Director, Chair, Water Safety Council of Fresno County

Miha Babalai, CWSC Operations Manager