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 prevention 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: Executive Director, The ZAC Foundation

Cristina Alvarado: Director of Programming, Rose Bowl Aquatics Center

Drew Kodelja: Associate Executive Director, YMCA of San Francisco

Chad Gunter: Recreation Supervisor, City of Folsom Parks and Recreation

Mariko Rooks: Epidemiologist, Center for Disease Control Foundation

Dr. Renay Bradley: Chief, Syndromic Surveillance Program, Office of Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response, CA Department of Public Health (CDPH)

Samantha Dieterman: Program Coordinator & Public Information Officer, City of Huntington Beach Fire Department

Rob Williams: CWSC Treasurer; Retired, Newport Beach Fire

Karen Cohn: Founder, The ZAC Foundation

Julie Lopiccolo: CWSC Interim-Chair; Founder, Jasper Ray Foundation

Dr. Mark Simonian: Water Safety Council of Fresno County

Miha Babalai: CWSC Secretary