Families Engagement hosts swimming lessons in Darlington
Mrs. Lillian Brunson and other instructors posed with local youths who received swimming lessons on Saturday, August 22. PHOTO BY STEPHAN DREW
By Stephan Drew, Editor
Splashes of laughter and encouragement echoed across the Gandy Pool on Saturday, August 22, as S.C. Representative Robert Williams and his nonprofit Families Engagement hosted free public swimming lessons at the community pool, located at 115 Gary Street.
The event drew families from across the area eager to give their children — and in some cases, themselves — a skill that could last a lifetime.
Generous support and sponsorship from Darlington Together and the Darlington Kiwanis Club helps with maintenence of the pool, lifeguards, instructors and other operational expenses.
For Rep. Williams, the initiative was about far more than a fun Saturday afternoon in the water. “This is one of the best ways of giving back,” Williams said, “teaching young people how to swim, giving them skills that could save their lives in the future.”
Tony Stephenson, Executive Director of Families Engagement, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the community-first spirit behind the event. “The pool is for the whole community,” Stephenson said. “This is all about Community Engagement.”
Leading the lessons was Chief Swimming Instructor Lillian Brunson, a Darlington native whose connection to the water runs deep — and personal. Mrs. Brunson took swimming lessons under the instruction of her late husband, Swint Brunson, at the Sun and Splash, long before the two would marry. In the decades since, she has dedicated more than 50 years of her life to teaching others to swim.
Beyond technique, Mrs. Brunson brings a philosophy to the pool deck that resonates with swimmers of all ages.
“I have come to the realization that letting go of fear is a matter of faith,” she shared. “The mind tells us that because we are heavy, we will sink to the bottom just like a rock. As long as you cling to the fear, your body tenses and makes it difficult, if not impossible, to stay on top of the water. When we step out on faith and let go of the fear, our body floats.”
It’s a lesson, she says, that applies well beyond the water. Mrs. Brunson was joined by other instructors, including her son James, who were there to help others overcome their apprehension and become comfortable enough in the water to improve their swimming skills.
Saturday’s swim lessons are just one piece of the work being done by Families Engagement Program, Inc., a nonprofit based near Darlington at 2715 West Lucas Street in Florence, South Carolina. The organization is dedicated to supporting local families through economic assistance, mental health resources, and programs aimed at improving overall quality of life.
Families Engagement’s offerings extend well beyond youth programming. The organization also hosts activities designed for adults, veterans, and senior citizens — including popular line dancing and karaoke events — reflecting its commitment to serving every generation in the community.
Community members interested in learning more, volunteering, donating or supporting the organization’s mission are encouraged to reach out.
Contact: Mr. Tony Stephenson — (513) 783-3318 Website: Familiesengagement.org
Or, you may contact Swimming Instructor Lillian Brunson at (843) 309-1262, to check on available openings.
Families Engagement Program, Inc. continues to build on its mission of connecting Darlington and Florence-area families with the resources — and the skills — they need to thrive.