NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The Brooke Erin Posey Foundation, whose signature fundraiser is the Brooke E. Posey Swim-a-thon, is changing its format this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of its yearly event held at the Southern Yacht Club, the foundation and its “Swim for Brooke” team are holding a “Swim Anywhere” Swim-a-Thon from July 24 -Aug, 9, open to all ages and abilities.
“Like so many events, COVID-19 gave us a chance to re-think the swim-a-thon,” announced Ernest Posey, Brooke’s father, and director at the Brooke Erin Posey Foundation. “The fundraiser will be held over two weeks and you can participate wherever you like to swim: bathtub, baby pool, back yard pool, club pools or even a pool at your vacation destination. Get creative and set your own personal challenge.”
According to Posey, the Foundation was named and founded for his daughter, Brooke Posey, who was killed in a tragic automobile accident in 2017 at age 17. Brooke was an avid swimmer and member of the Southern Yacht Club swim team. The swim-a-thon, now in its fourth year, is held to support local children’s charities. The 2020 recipient is Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Louisiana (RMHC-SLA) that operates a home away from home for families of seriously ill or injured children needing medical treatment in the New Orleans area.
The entry fee to participate is $35 which includes a $15 non-refundable registration fee plus $20 donation. Registered swimmers will receive a reusable drawstring bag along with a 2020 swim-a-thon t-shirt after the event. A designated pick-up date will be determined for mid- August. Registration is now open at swimforbrooke.com and will continue through Aug. 9. Corporate and family sponsorships are available, please send inquiries to info@swimforbrooke.com.
To keep swimmers connected with other swimmers, the Swim for Brooke team is encouraging virtual (and friendly) competition by expanding this year’s awards. Participants can compete for the traditional awards like most laps swam and most donations. New this year include categories like ‘most exotic location,’ ‘most creative challenge,’ and ‘best dressed swimmer.’ Look for incentives to swim and fundraise during the two-week event. There will be chances to earn entries for giveaways such as gift card basket, local tours, gift baskets and other items. “It’s looking to be a hot summer, and swimming is one activity that people of all ages enjoy. What better way to combine fun with supporting a worthy cause like the Ronald McDonald House? It’s a win-win,” said Posey.
For more details and to register go to www.swimforbrooke.com. Additional questions and requests for sponsorship opportunities may be emailed to info@swimforbrooke.com
