My Mission

Hello! My name is Mateo Valdivieso. I am a 22-year-old undergraduate student at the University of Central Florida, double majoring in Political Science and English on a pre-law track. I have been competitively swimming for 18 years and teaching swim lessons for just over 6 years. I am passionate about working with children, especially those who may be disadvantaged. I am currently writing an undergraduate thesis focusing on the susceptibility of foster children to human trafficking within the United States. I started this organization as a way to learn more about foster children in my community while giving back to them at the same time.

My work with children began through Embrace Families, and I have since expanded this organization to serve children throughout the Greater Orlando Area. I will be attending law school after my time at UCF, with the goal of becoming a children’s rights attorney and continuing my advocacy for kids, especially those in my swim community. I have worked with children ranging from 6 months to 18 years old, and I believe in empowerment and the essential skills that my lessons can provide. This organization is part of my larger mission to help children in need and to fight for reforms in a system that puts foster children at risk of countless dangers.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions about my mission, research, or the Swim For Change organization in general!

Our Swim Instructors

Providing free swim lessons to foster children in Orlando area.

College Team of Volunteers

All of our instructors are 18-22-year-old college students in the Orlando area who are certified in CPR/AED/Lifeguarding. They have all passed a Level ll Background Screening.

Experienced Instructors

Our instructors all have a background in competitive swimming and know how to teach essential swim skills as well as all four swim strokes.

Sign up to Volunteer

If you feel passionate about our mission and have a background in swimming please contact us to see how you can help!