Gullah Swim Academy Facility Assistance

Gullah Swim Academy, LLC, is located in beautiful and historic Downtown Charleston, South Carolina. It was established December 18th, 2021 in the mist of the Covid-19 pandemic. Founders, Nicole Ashby, Harleston Ashby, Vincent Ashby, Jr, Meaghen Ashby, Fenix Gallashaw, Sarah Gallashaw, and Basir Robertson have dedicated their lives to serving the community by providing professional yet nurturing aquatic services and education for all but specially for minorities. We are a minority, family-owned small business who understands the importance of teaching people how to swim and to be water safe. Statistically, black and brown people drown at higher rates than Caucasians. Gullah Swim Academy's mission is to help decrease drowning among minorities, educate the community about the risks and dangers of water, yet provided a safe and unforgettable experience in and around water. Our passion, dedication, and love for the water service as the foundation that helps others overcome fears, traumatic experiences, and lack of knowledge when it comes to swimming. Our facility is private, warm and inviting to all ages. Services are offered year round providing warmth during the winter months and cooling during the summer months. It also serves as the eighth member of the family business. Without our facility we would not be capable of providing year round services.

Sunday, December 17th, 2023, a northeastern storm ravaged the east coast. In Charleston SC, we experienced higher than normal flooding and high wind gusts that paralyzed the downtown area. Charleston is accustomed to rain storms but nothing could have prepared us for this. Torrential rains and gusty winds flooded our facility and decimated our tent. There was no time to take apart our facility. The amount of damage is irreversible and devastating. We tried everything to preserve what we could but ultimately, our tent, steps, and flooring are destroyed. Luckily, our pool was not damaged. Because of the damage, we have temporarily suspended our services. This will not deter us for reopening. We are Charleston Strong. The gift of learning how to swim is a life saving, life changing skill that can be used by all. You can help by giving from your heart. Our goal is to rebuild and continue to serve the community. We need your help. Please consider giving what you can. We can't thank you enough for supporting Gullah Swim Academy in it's efforts to save lives one swimmer at a time.