The United Pool Council (UPC) was formed with the help of BPFP to support Berkeley’s community swimming pools. BPFP and UPC have worked to expand swimming opportunities for citizens of all ages, physical abilities and income levels throughout the city. UPC has focused on private-public collaborations to offset cutbacks in local government funding. For example, UPC oversaw a successful full-day renovation of one of the older city pools in conjunction with the City of Berkeley’s Aquatic Department and the local chapter of Rebuilding Together. Similarly, UPC has worked to retain swimming as a vital life skill in local schools through an innovative “Schools to Pools” program. Solar panels to attract the sun and conserve energy, as well as colorful marketing pieces to attract swimmers and preserve the pools, are additional ways UPC strives to keep these unique resources available to all. To take a splash and get involved, contact Charlie Banks-Altekruse at 510-913-3669.
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