Hope Floats Foundation is pleased to announce that Amanda Beard has joined its Board of Directors.

Amanda Beard is a 7-time Olympic medalist with two gold, four silver and one bronze. At 14 years old, she made her first Olympic appearance and became the second youngest swimmer in history to receive a medal, winning one gold and two silvers. She went on to achieve eight USA Swimming National Titles, hold the FINA World Record and the World Champion title for the 200-meter breaststroke, and compete in three more Olympic games.

Following her decorated swimming career, Amanda has served as a brand representative, nonprofit advisor, and a model and correspondent for print and television outlets. She has written a New York Times Bestselling book (In the Water They Can't See You Cry) and is the Co-Founder of Beard Swim Co., a learn-to-swim school located in Gig Harbor, Washington.

“We are thrilled to have Amanda join our leadership team at Hope Floats.” said Cindy Tonnesen, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hope Floats Foundation. She continued, “Beyond the notoriety she receives for her outstanding swimming career, Amanda is a committed water safety advocate and a savvy entrepreneur. She brings an invaluable perspective that will benefit our organization for many years to come.”

“Keeping kids water safe is a mission that became more important to me after having children of my own. I believe the ability to swim is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child, and that there is a segment of children from disadvantaged families who are underserved. I am looking forward to working with Hope Floats to expand access to these children, not only in Gig Harbor, but across the US.” said Amanda Beard, Hope Floats Foundation Board Member.

The equivalent of thirteen school buses full of children die each year in the United States due to drowning. Although 100% preventable, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children under age 5 and the second leading cause of accidental death for children under age 14. Studies from the National Institute of Health show that swim lessons reduce the risk of drowning by 88%.

Written by: Christy Bostic, Hope Floats Executive Director