Bend Parks and Recreation seeks volunteers for lifeguard and swim instructor programs

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Bend Parks and Recreation is seeking teen and adult volunteers for its lifeguard and Swim-Aid programs at its swimming pools this summer. These programs provide all necessary training and offer a pathway to paid positions.

The volunteer opportunities are open to both teens and adults, allowing participants to receive comprehensive training for roles as lifeguards or swim instructors. This initiative also offers volunteers a clear path toward potential paid employment within the department.

Savannah Sutter, lead of the Swim-Aid program, noted the training aspect of the volunteer work. "I think it's a really good opportunity for them to get some training if they want to become some instructors," Sutter said.

"I think a lot of these kiddos who are doing this volunteer work are doing it with the intent of becoming a swim instructor once they're old enough." Emma Bell, Aquatics Coordinator, highlighted the long-term success of participants in the junior guard program.

"And we've had a lot of those junior guards become very successful, lifeguards and even become EMTs," Bell said. "We've had some of them become facility shift lives for ourselves. So being in charge of other lifeguards and even helping out with our junior guard program."

The programs require a commitment of about 2 hours a day. Swim instructors can begin volunteering in their early teens, making it a summer activity option.