EmBe to end aquatics program, close downtown pool

EmBe plans to end its aquatics program after more than 60 years and close its downtown Sioux Falls pool.

The change will take effect Sept. 1 and “reflects the organization’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and to investing where it can create the greatest long-term impact for children, women and families,” the organization said in a statement.

Aquatics programming will continue through scheduled sessions, with final swim lessons concluding this month.

The pool at EmBe, formerly the Sioux Falls YWCA, has been in operation for 61 years, offering a place for swimming lessons as well as wellness and recreational swimming.

“Our mission is to uplift the potential in children, women and families through opportunities that empower all,” EmBe CEO Kerri Tietgen said.

“As our community has evolved, so have its needs. This decision allows us to align our resources with the areas where EmBe is uniquely positioned to serve: supporting working families, expanding access to quality education and youth programming, empowering women and strengthening workforce development opportunities.”

Over the past several years, Sioux Falls has made significant investments in expanding community aquatics, including new and enhanced public aquatic facilities supported by both public funding and private philanthropy, the organization noted.

“As those community resources continue to grow, EmBe has carefully evaluated the role of its own facility,” it said, adding that the EmBe pool requires hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to operate and maintain and that it’s no longer a responsible use of charitable resources.

“Stewardship means making difficult decisions today so we can continue creating opportunities tomorrow,” said Ravan Ackerman, chief development officer.

“We believe our donors want to invest where the need is greatest. By redirecting resources toward our mission, we can expand programs that strengthen families, prepare children for success, empower women and help build the workforce our community needs.”

The transition also creates an opportunity for EmBe to focus donor investment on programs that remove barriers for working families and help meet Sioux Falls’ growing workforce needs through high-quality childcare, education, youth development and workforce readiness initiatives, the organization said.

“These programs help parents remain in the workforce, support children’s development and strengthen the long-term vitality of the community.”

As the pool closes, EmBe will provide participants with information about alternative aquatics facilities and swim lesson opportunities available throughout Sioux Falls.

To celebrate more than six decades of memories, EmBe will hold a Legacy Lap event Aug. 30-31, where members of the public are invited to swim one final time. There will be a historical timeline celebrating 61 years in addition to refreshments and the chance to share memories with others.

“While this chapter is coming to a close, our commitment to this community has never been stronger,” Tietgen said. “We are moving forward with purpose — investing in the programs that only EmBe can provide and ensuring we remain a strong, sustainable organization for generations to come.”