Cambridge youth take the next step toward becoming lifesavers

A group of Cambridge youth reached an important milestone on July 24, completing the City of Cambridge's Bronze Medallion course and taking another step toward becoming certified lifeguards and lifesavers in the community. 

Throughout the program, participants challenged themselves to develop rescue skills, learn how to recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies, and use lifesaving equipment with confidence. Through realistic rescue scenarios, students practiced making quick decisions under pressure while strengthening their leadership skills and learning how to safely help others in distress. 

The Bronze Medallion course is one of several lifesaving and leadership programs offered through City of Cambridge recreation services. These programs provide youth with opportunities to build water safety knowledge, develop valuable workplace skills, and pursue future employment in aquatics. 

Over the past year, the City has delivered 15 Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross and National Lifeguard courses, supporting more than 200 local youth on their lifesaving journey. Many of the lifeguards working at City of Cambridge pools today developed their skills through these same programs. 

For the youth who completed Bronze Medallion this summer, the certification represents more than a personal achievement. It is a step toward future leadership opportunities, employment in aquatics, and becoming part of the next generation of trained lifesavers helping keep Cambridge pools and waterfronts safe.