The Eastern Shores Masters Swimming (ESMS) team recently donated $1,500 to the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club during the club's annual Christmas dinner.

Team members Carrie French and Chris Shrader presented the donation, continuing a longstanding tradition of community support.

The funds were raised through ESMS's annual Oktober Splash swim meet, which brings swimmers together in the spirit of competition and charity, with swimmers ranging from 24 to 89 years old. Since 2017, ESMS has donated a total of $7,000 to the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club, helping to support its after-school programs that provide mentorship, education and enrichment opportunities for local youth.

"We're thrilled to continue our partnership with the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club and contribute to such a meaningful cause," said Chris Shrader, an ESMS representative. "Our team takes pride in making a difference both in the pool and in the community."

In addition to supporting the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club, ESMS has also contributed $4,500 to the Fairhope Recreation Center's pool in prior years, contributing equipment to the facility to support swimmers of all ages and skill levels.

As part of the larger national organization United States Masters Swimming (USMS), ESMS exemplifies the values of teamwork, community involvement and health. The team is grateful to its members, sponsors and participants of the Oktober Splash event, whose efforts and generosity made this year's donation possible.