What We Do
Since 2013, we have led the effort to protect Everyone by teaching Water Safety.
The Vivian Stancil Olympian Foundation (VSOF) was birthed in 2013 and got its IRS exemption in 2014.
The Vivian Stancil Olympian Foundation is dedicated to preventing unintentional injuries to children and adults in the City of Riverside. Childhood drownings can be eliminated because we know that childhood drowning is 100% preventable.
The Vivian Stancil Olympian Foundation was born when asked a question back in early 2013 “How can I help others” feeling grateful of the out pour of individuals to help her raise funds to attend her 4th National Senior Olympics. After she had received a scholarship to attend the National Senior Games in Cleveland Ohio, the solution was to create a foundation that could promote and support seniors the way the community had supported her. But she didn’t want to be limited so she also augmented her goal to not only motivate seniors but to also encourage youth to live healthy lifestyles. Swimming became the common denominator that she could use to encourage both generations, affording funds for seniors to attend and compete in the various senior games competitions and for the youth to either learn how to swim or participate in drown proofing training — Vivian believes no child should die because they do not have the basic understanding of how to prevent themselves from drowning; thus VSOF was Born. We received our Non Profit Tax Exempt Status and we have been pursuing that goal ever since…
FACTS
Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional or accidental injuries-related deaths in children ages 1-5 years old in Riverside.
86% of all drownings or near-drowning incidents occur in backyard pools or spa/jacuzzis
As a result of the above-mentioned statistics, the Vivian Stancil Olympian Foundation started its Water Safety Swim Program teaching swimming techniques and water safety tips to children ages 3 years old through adults 65+ years old.
2015 – 100 participants
2016 – 213 participants
2017 – 340 participants
2018/19 – 1000 participants (Cutter Sippy Woodhead Pools)
2020 – Event closed due to COVID 19
