Expanding Access, One Stroke at a Time: Local Organizations Team Up to Make Swimming Inclusive for All

In a conversation filled with heart, purpose, and a splash of inspiration, Charles Harbaugh IV, mayor of Middletown and CEO of Access Independence, joined Shelly Lee, a dedicated swim instructor and volunteer with the Two for Two Foundation, to share how their organizations are partnering to make swim lessons more accessible for individuals with disabilities across the Northern Shenandoah Valley.

Together, they’re helping break down barriers—with the help of a water wheelchair and a growing network of inclusive, community-focused programs.

Access Independence is a nonprofit organization that supports people with disabilities in six localities: Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Page, Shenandoah counties, and the City of Winchester. The group serves more than 700 clients and has grown 60% in the last four years. While many people know them for providing wheelchairs, walkers, and home accessibility ramps at no cost, their work goes far beyond equipment.

“We help with things like financial management, peer mentoring, and independent living skills,” said Harbaugh. “And now, through our partnership with Two for Two, we’re making sure people with disabilities also have a chance to learn to swim.”

That partnership took a major leap this year when Access Independence purchased a water wheelchair for the Strasburg Town Pool, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to safely enter and exit the water. The chair, which costs around $2,500, was sourced through a specialized distributor and is now available to the public.

Harbaugh also hinted at exciting news: “It looks like Front Royal will be the next location to receive a water wheelchair—there’s already a donor lined up.”

Shelly Lee, who teaches swimming through the Two for Two Foundation, has made it her mission to promote aquatic literacy among people of all ages and abilities, from infants to seniors.

“We go from babies to people in their 80s,” she said. “We’ve seen adults wanting to take swim lessons just so they can enjoy vacations more safely. And with our growing number of clients with autism, we’re offering more private lessons, especially for children on the spectrum.”

Lee currently teaches lessons at the Wellness Center at Winchester Medical Center and outdoor pools in Clarke County, Front Royal, and Strasburg. Thanks to generous donations and grant funding, the Two for Two Foundation partners with these localities to provide lessons free of charge to eligible families.

“The water is a leveler,” Lee said. “When children are in the pool, they’re just like everyone else. It builds confidence, helps with sensory regulation, and even improves academic performance. Swimming engages every muscle and both sides of the brain—it’s proven to help kids become better learners.”

Harbaugh emphasized that inclusion in physical activities like swimming can be life-changing. “People with disabilities often get overlooked. But when you give them access—to swimming, sports, driving, community spaces—they thrive. Last year, we helped eight people get their driver’s licenses. That opens the door to jobs, independence, and dignity.”

In addition to swimming and mobility services, Access Independence is involved in adaptive golf, driver education, and home accessibility projects in Warren County. The organization recently received a $7,500 grant from United Way to support local projects, including ramps and vehicle hand-control installations.

Meanwhile, the Two for Two Foundation continues to work toward its larger vision: building a regional facility with two pools and two ice rinks to serve residents across the area. Inspired by successful models in other parts of Virginia, the foundation hopes to combine swimming and skating programs under one roof, promoting physical and mental wellness across generations.

“There’s a need,” said Lee. “And we’re trying to meet it—one swimmer, one wheelchair, one pool at a time.”

Get Involved or Sign Up

• Swim lessons for children with autism or special needs are available now at outdoor pools in Clarke County, Front Royal, and Strasburg.
• Water Babies classes and private lessons are also enrolling.
• Limited openings remain at the indoor Wellness Center in Winchester.

To learn more or to sign up, text 540-481-4861 for current openings, partnerships, and grant-based support.

About the Organizations
The 2 for 2 Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on creating inclusive recreational opportunities that support the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals of all abilities. Through community partnerships and programs like swim literacy, the foundation ensures everyone feels welcomed and empowered.

Access Independence is a nonprofit Center for Independent Living that has served the Northern Shenandoah Valley since 1985. The organization provides free services, resources, and advocacy to promote independence and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities across the region.