Drowning is Preventable. Safety is Teachable. Hope is Achievable.

At GAWSA, we are dedicated to saving lives through water safety education, scholarships, and community outreach. Together with families, schools, and partners, we work to ensure that all communities across Georgia have access to the knowledge and resources needed to stay safe in and around water.

Our Story:

A Mission to Protect Georgia’s Communities

GAWSA was created with one clear purpose: to prevent drownings and save lives by making water safety education accessible to everyone in Georgia.

Every year, countless families — across all ages and backgrounds — face risks simply because they lack access to swim lessons or water safety resources. We believe water safety should not depend on income, geography, or language.

Through education, scholarships, and partnerships, GAWSA works hand-in-hand with communities to break down barriers and build a future where everyone feels confident and safe around water.

What Drives Us

Mission

To eliminate drownings in Georgia by providing access to water safety education, swim scholarships, and resources for all communities.

Vision

A future where everyone in Georgia — regardless of background — has the tools and knowledge to stay safe around water.

Values

Safety, Equity, Community, Education, Impact, Compassion

Our stories

Real Stories,

Real Impact

At GAWSA, every lesson is more than just a swim—it’s a life changed. Through our scholarships, community partnerships, and safety programs, we’ve empowered families across Georgia to feel confident around water. Hear directly from the parents, kids, and community leaders whose lives have been transformed by our work. These are the voices behind our mission—and the reason we do what we do.

Thank you for making such a positive difference in our lives!

Javiana H.

Scholarship awardee

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude, for awarding my child a scholarship for swimming lessons. The experience has been absolutely wonderful, not only because of the skills learned but also because of the constant support and care we’ve received. It’s amazing to find organizations so dedicated to the development and well-being of children. We are truly happy and grateful for this opportunity. Thank you for making such a positive difference in our lives!

Our Impact Across Georgia

We collaborate with schools, neighborhoods, health organizations, and families to ensure that everyone — children, adults, caregivers — has access to the tools and resources to prevent drowning.

Scholarships delivered this year
0 +
Partner academies
0 +
Cities covered around Atlanta
0 +
People reached through our digital channels
0 k

Our Founder

A Lifelong Advocate for Water Safety

Safety around water starts with awareness, stay vigilant and stay safe.

Craig Sears

Founder of GAWSA | President of Sears Pool Management

Craig, originally from Atlanta, developed a deep passion for swimming from a young age, dedicating years to excel in competitive swimming. He obtained a Biology degree from Washington and Lee University, enhancing his understanding of aquatic environments. Driven by a vision to improve pool facilities, he pursued an MBA in Management at Georgia State University. His journey in the aquatics industry included various roles, from lifeguard and swim coach to pool manager and even bartending. These experiences culminated in the establishment of Sears Pool Management in 1997, showcasing his multifaceted expertise and commitment to transforming aquatic facilities.

Together, We Build Safer Communities

Our work is powered by collaboration. We partner with swim schools, nonprofits, health departments, and community organizations across Georgia to bring resources where they’re needed most.

Join Us in Making Georgia Safer

Ways to Get Involved:

Donate

Fund scholarships and educational programs.

Volunteer

Help with events, outreach, and education.

Partner

Join our network of impact-driven organizations.

Sponsor a Scholarship

Directly support a family in need.

Contact

Get In Touch

Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, to discover exciting volunteer opportunities, or to explore potential sponsorship/partnership arrangements with GAWSA.

Our team is readily available to assist you, so don’t hesitate to get in touch via phone or email at your convenience. We look forward to connecting with you and discussing how we can collaborate to make a positive impact in the world of swimming and aquatic education.

GAWSA Contact
I'm looking for:
How you heard about us?
en_USEN