Click here to view our impact statement: FOR Swimming Community Impact Statement 

Mission

Friends of Rockbridge Swimming, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the citizens of the Rockbridge County region by providing educational opportunities and aquatic programs that enhance the health, water safety, fitness and recreational needs in a positive, welcoming and safe environment. 

Our Values

  • We believe swimming is an important element of personal safety and health. Learning to swim and developing comfort in and around the water is valuable at all ages. 

  • We value harmony and cooperation with the public in pursuing affordable aquatic opportunities that are responsive to community needs. 

  • We value social connections and the mental health benefits that they provide.

  • We value transparency in our operations so that all contributors can have confidence in our financial stewardship. 

  • We value energy conservation in all aspects of our operation and strive to incorporate new technologies to reduce our carbon emissions.

Our History

Friends of Rockbridge Swimming, Inc. (FOR Swimming) was formed in 2004 by a group of individuals interested in fulfilling the vision of having public access to a year round pool become a reality in Rockbridge County, Virginia. Thus this non-profit organization was formed to foster charitable causes and provide support, educational opportunities, and benefits for youth, high school, and adult swim teams, as well as fitness and therapy swimming for all Rockbridge County citizens. The founding Board of Directors included David Copeland, President, Kathleen Haugen, Vice President, Kathy Gilbert, Treasurer, Ruth Kitchen, Secretary, and additional board members Leslie Ayers, Beedle Hinely, Florinda Ruiz, Julie Tisone, Shelley Undercoffer, and Albert Vargas.

Following two years of intensive fundraising and support from the City of Lexington and Rockbridge County, FOR Swimming broke ground in June 2006 and the community was swimming a year later.

The project included the construction of a 25-yard pool and installation of an Asati fabric dome. The dome is highly translucent and requires no lighting during daytime hours with an added thermaliner which reduces heating costs. A chair lift was installed to help the physically challenged have easy access in and out of the water. In addition, an adjacent pool house was built inclusive of locker rooms, showers, office, team room, pump room and storage for pool and swimming equipment which was funded by FOR Swimming’s “Raise the Roof Campaign” supported by donations from individuals, families, and businesses.

This entire project was successfully managed by John Gunner of Gunner Construction, Lexington, who donated his talent, labor, and financial support to help make this vision into a reality. Spencer’s Home Center, Lexington, was also an integral contributor.

Governance Documents

Board Members for 2024

  • Anita Givens (President), Shannon Dryden (Vice President), Ruth Kitchen (Secretary) David Mayersky (Treasurer); Joe Borzelleca, Irene Townsend, Tuck Bowerfind, Kacie D'Alessandro, Lenny Bruno

Board Meeting Schedule 2024

The FOR Swimming Board meets the last Thursday of the month at 6 PM in the Team Room of the Rockbridge Aquatics Center. 

Upcoming Board Meetings

January 25