Locals Do Laps for Literacy in Swimathon Fundraiser

Volunteers from Essex, Union and Morris Counties participated in the first annual "Laps for Literacy," a 24-hour swimathon to benefit the vital work of Literacy Volunteers of Morris County last weekend.

Participants swam laps around the clock at the JCC Metrowest in West Orange, from 7:10 a.m. on Saturday, April 13 until  Sunday, April 14 at 7:10 a.m.

Swimmer volunteers collected pledges and donations, and swam in shifts lasting anywhere from an hour to all night long.  "Our goal was to raise money and awareness for this important organization," said event organizer Mel Fink. The group raised nearly $10,000.

Literacy Volunteers of Morris County promotes increased literacy and fluency in English for adult learners through the use of dedicated, trained volunteers and support staff.  This non-profit organization serves almost 1,000 students each year, helping them to improve their ability to read, write and speak English, so that they are able to work, raise their children, and live independently.