Indy Sports Corp. has announced a partnership with the Greater Indianapolis YMCA and Indy Parks to open pools to the public from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 6.

More than 20 pool locations will be participating as an effort to encourage water safety and inclusion in the lead up to the Olympic swim trials taking place from June 15-23 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
OneAmerica Financial is sponsoring the community pool day, and their efforts are spearheaded by Indy Sports Corp.ās lineup of events through the end of May and beginning of June.
“OneAmerica Financial is proud to support this work to further strengthen communities and teach more people to swim while promoting water access, equity and safety,” Karin Sarratt, executive vice president at OneAmerica Financial and co-chair of the Local Organizing Committee for the 2024 Olympic Swimming Trials, said in a press release. “We are working to heal generational fear of and exclusion from water, and that is transformative for both our communities and the sport of swimming.”
Indy Sports Corp.ās other events featured a Q&A by community leaders regarding water equity and access in Indianapolis. An issue, as they explained, needs attention as the Olympic trials make their way into the Circle City.
Indy Parkās mission for the community pool day aligns with that of Indy Sports Corp., hoping to expand access to individuals learning how to swim or who are still uncertain about water.
“We believe that every individual should have the opportunity to learn to swim and enjoy the water safely,” said Phyllis Boyd, Indy Parks Director. “By working with our partners to provide this community swim day, we’re expanding access to those lifesaving skills.”
Similarly, the YMCA of greater Indianapolis wants to bring a pleasant experience for community members and families to enjoy the pool together.
“Everyone deserves the chance to experience the joy of swimming in a safe environment,” YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Association Director of Aquatics Jennifer Stoneking said. “Free Community Pool Day embodies our commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that all members of our community can access and benefit from our aquatic facilities.”
Aside from the free community pool day, splash pads, outdoor pools and waterparks will open their gates to the public Memorial Day weekend or the following weekend. Indy Parks has a full list of their outdoor pool locations and splash pads here.
As pools become more popular, the Indiana Red Cross wants to remind swimmers, parents and sun tanners about safety tips when around water.
- Ensure everyone from your family or party entering the water has a good understanding of how to swim.
- Adults must supervise children and stay within armās reach.
- Private pools need to be fenced in.
- When a body of water has a lifeguard, swim in pairs near the lifeguardās chair. In areas protected by lifeguards, it is always encouraged to swim with a buddy.
- Familiarize yourself and others with proper CPR protocols and know when to call for help.
- When on a watercraft, in a situation outside of your skill set or on a large body of water, wear a life vest.
The Indiana Red Cross also encourages water safety with pets and to keep an eye on the weather conditions in your area before going swimming.
For more information about the community pool day, visit indianasportscorp.org/free-community-pool-day for a list of participating locations.
Contact Staff Writer Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.