The International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo, co-located with Deck Expo, (PSP/Deck Expo) has donated $25,000 toward Step Into Swim.
Step Into Swim, a non-profit initiative of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), is dedicated to creating more swimmers through safe swim education.
On January 23, members of the PSP/Deck Expo show team presented the organization with a $25,000 check.
Kris Osterbusch, show director, said they believe that it’s their responsibility to create safe swimming and recreational spaces in all communities.
“PSP/Deck Expo’s commitment to giving back is a reflection of the caring nature of the pool, hot tub, and outdoor living industries and the professionals we bring together every year,” Osterbusch said. “We are proud to serve an industry that knows the importance of water safety and drowning prevention.”
PSP/Deck Expo, held from November 13 to 15, 2023, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, brought together more than 9,700 industry professionals from all 50 states and more than 60 countries to explore the latest technology driving the pool, hot tub, and outdoor living industries forward. The 2023 PSP/Deck Expo looked to go beyond the surface and make a meaningful impact that resonates far beyond the confines of the expo halls.
Rowdy Gaines, Olympic Gold Medalist, PHTA Vice President of Partnerships & Development, and leader of the Step Into Swim initiative, said they want to ensure that every poolside memory is a happy one.
“By teaming up with Step Into Swim, a respected organization dedicated to spreading awareness about water safety, PSP/Deck Expo showcases its dedication to both innovation and responsibility,” Gaines said.
Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1–4, but receiving swim lessons from a qualified instructor reduces the risk of drowning by 88% for that same age group — underscoring the importance of water safety programs.
Charitable contributions are integral to growing Step Into Swim’s mission. In 2023, the Step Into Swim program reached 27,000 children across 35 states and Canada, delivering more than 100,000 swim lessons to instill crucial water safety skills. This significant achievement was made possible with the support of more than 350 donors, comprising both individuals and companies, like PSP/Deck Expo, who joined PHTA in their mission to create a safer aquatic environment for children.
The initiative has gifted more than 330,000 swim lessons since 2012 through YMCAs, Jewish Community Centers, Boys and Girls Clubs, and many more. Step Into Swim is funded through contributions and 100 percent of donations go to learn-toswim programming.
