The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the return of its free summer swim lesson program at the Rahway River Park Pool, offered in partnership with The Gateway Family YMCA. The program runs from July 1 through August 21, 2025, and includes age-specific classes for children ages 3 to 12, seniors age 65 and older, and adult water exercise participants.
“Learning how to swim is a critical life skill that every child should have access to—regardless of background or income,” said Commissioner Chair Lourdes Leon. “By offering these lessons at no cost, we’re not only helping kids and seniors stay safe and active, we’re breaking down barriers and making sure every Union County resident has the chance to thrive. This is what equitable, community-centered government looks like.”
Class capacities are limited to ensure safe, personalized instruction. Youth sessions are capped at 6 participants per class, while adult water exercise classes allow up to 30 participants.
Class schedule and details can be found in the form below.
Classes will be held at Rahway River Park Pool, located in Rahway, NJ. Registration is required and will be available online later this month. Residents are encouraged to sign up early due to limited space in each class.
For more information, contact the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.
Class Descriptions
Classes will meet once a week for 8 weeks with a ratio of 1 instructor per six students. Thursday classes will meet once a week for 7 weeks due to the July 4th Holiday.
Youth Beginner
Students develop comfort with underwater exploration and focus on body position and control, directional change, and forward movement in the water while also continuing to practice how to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water.
Youth Basic Lesson
Students learn how to swim to safety from a longer distance than in previous stages through stroke technique in front crawl and back crown while also introducing rhythmic breathing and integrated arm and leg action. Water safety is reinforced through treading water and rolling to their back to float.
Senior Adult Lesson
Students develop comfort with underwater exploration and focus on body position and control, directional change, and forward movement in the water while also continuing to practice safety skills like rolling to their backs and floating.
Senior Water Exercise
Participants engage in exercise through low impact movements while focusing on muscle toning and cardio endurance. This is especially helpful for those seeking the ability to exercise without jarring their joints.