Parks and Recreation Commission Takes a Dip (or 28) in Philly Pools
Above, PaRC members Kris Soffa (third from left) and Susan Dannenberg (third from right) pose with pool staff.
The Parks and Recreation Commission (PaRC) kicked off the summer with a big splash: its members have been touring pools across the city, talking to lifeguards, and going for a swim in 28 of our 70+ pools! The goal? To get a sense of current pool conditions and programming, and to better understand the role Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) pools play in their neighborhoods.
This initiative is especially close to the heart of Commission member Kris Soffa, whose first job was as a lifeguard. As she swam across the city, Kris was delighted to see how “clean, inviting, and beautifully maintained” PPR pools are, as well as how committed recreation center staff are to their roles: “They love their work and the people they work with -- they’re so proud of each other!” Commission member Susan Dannenberg (who came up with the idea for the pool visits) adds, “It is amazing to see the important role the rec centers and pools specifically play in each neighborhood. The pools are able to support a variety of programs, from swim teams to family swim time.”
The Swim Philly pools the group visited -- with their additional programming and amenities -- were a particular highlight. Kris noted that pool staff and visitors were taking care of the facilities, showing a sense of community ownership. (One passer-by was so impressed by a pool, they asked how much membership cost: Kris was delighted to share, “Isn’t it nice? The pools are free, courtesy of Philly Parks & Rec.“) At all pool sites, Kris observed, “Our pools reflect our philosophy. No matter which neighborhood you’re in, the pools provide safe, clean outdoor fun for the whole family.”
Her biggest takeaway from these visits: that the connection between communities and their local recreation centers is vital. As Kris explained, “Meeting swimmers, campers, and lifeguards, we saw that that relationship is reciprocal. It really creates an anchor for the community, and people have a deep connection to their pool, both visitors and staff.”
Ready to dive into some summer fun? Find a PPR pool near you!
