Our Story
About the Foundation
Who We Are
30 Years Dedicated to Saving Lives
The Drowning Prevention Foundation is a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1994. For over three decades, we have worked tirelessly to eliminate preventable drowning deaths through education, community outreach, and advocacy.
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children ages 1–4 in California. We believe that with the right knowledge, barriers, and supervision, every one of these tragedies can be prevented. Our programs reach families, schools, and communities across the state — providing information about swim lessons, pool fencing requirements, water safety education, and emergency response training.
What Guides Us
Our Core Values
Prevention First
We believe every drowning is preventable. Our programs focus on education, barriers, and supervision to stop tragedies before they happen.
Community Care
We serve families across California with culturally responsive programs that meet communities where they are.
Collaboration
We partner with schools, fire departments, hospitals, and local governments to multiply our impact.
Evidence-Based
All of our programs are grounded in the latest research and best practices in drowning prevention and water safety.
Our Journey
40 Years of Impact
Foundation established in California with a focus on childhood drowning prevention.
Launched the Pool Fence Safety Initiative, installing barriers at hundreds of residential pools.
Expanded community outreach to underserved neighborhoods with free swim lesson scholarships.
Partnered with California fire departments to distribute water safety kits statewide.
Launched virtual water safety education during the pandemic, reaching thousands of families.
Celebrating 30 years of service and expanding programs to new California communities.
The People Behind the Mission
Our Leadership Team
Dr. Patricia Morales
Executive Director
A lifelong advocate for child safety with over 20 years in public health and nonprofit leadership.
James Thornton
Board Chair
Former fire chief and water rescue specialist committed to community-based drowning prevention.
Linda Chen
Director of Programs
Certified aquatics professional and educator who has trained hundreds of swim instructors across California.
Marcus Williams
Director of Outreach
Community organizer dedicated to bringing water safety resources to underserved families.
Trusted & Accredited
Join Us in Saving Lives
Whether you volunteer, donate, or spread the word — every action helps prevent the next drowning tragedy.