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A community-based project, Swim-In is co-sponsored and funded by the Bergen County Section of National Council of Jewish Women and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, NJ Metro Chapter. Please call the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, New Jersey Metro Chapter at 201-967-5599 or 1-800-344-4867 and ask about swim- in.
About the Program
Are you looking for a free, supervised physical activity that also offers the camaraderie of people with MS, together with dedicated volunteers? Then, look no further than Swim-In! Held at the pool area of the Jewish Community Center on the Palisades in Tenafly, Swim-In is in session for two hours every Wednesday in the early afternoon from September through May.
Water activity is beneficial for people who have MS. This disease, which strikes both young and old, may incapacitate and disable. Limbs often become weakened but the buoyancy of the water permits body movement, which is otherwise difficult. The emotional and psychological benefits of Swim-In are equally valuable.
Since 1976, we have provided a free, once-a-week recreational swimming program where people with MS have an opportunity for therapeutic exercise. Years of experience have taught us that the social and caring aspects of our unique community service are most rewarding to swimmers and volunteers alike.
This program is supervised by licensed physical therapists, who, as well as all of the other members of the group, are volunteers. Volunteers help the swimmers dress and undress; they push the wheel-chairs and are “buddies” in the pool.
Volunteers and people with MS get together on Wednesday afternoons to laugh, socialize, share life’s experiences, have a good time and become friends.
What do our swimmers say?
“Using muscles in the water is invigorating.”
“Going to Swim-In allows me to be more active.”
“Love and caring expressed by volunteers is wonderful.”
“I love it…makes me feel more optimistic.”
What do volunteers say?
“Makes a big difference in my life.”
“Feels like I am part of an extended family.”
“Best afternoon of the week.”
Read more about Swim- In in the news. Click here.
Interested in joining the Swim-In crowd?
In order to be eligible for the program, participants must be able to enter and exit the pool using the pool steps, with some assistance. A physician’s authorization is required. All applicants will meet with the physical therapist prior to beginning the swim program.
To learn more about Swim-In, please call the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, New Jersey Metro Chapter at 201-967-5599 or 1-800-344-4867.