SPERRY AND TANKPROOF PARTNER TO OFFER FREE SWIM LESSONS TO UNDERPRIVILEGED YOUTH

The multi-city tour, which kicked off in Austin on June 5th, will provide five-day swim classes for children aged 5 to 17. Tankproof's expert instructors will guide the children through these classes, equipping them with essential life skills and fostering their confidence in the water. The tour will continue in Dallas, San Francisco, Gonzales, and Seattle, with additional cities being added later in the summer.

Tragically, drowning is the leading cause of death for children between the ages of one and four, and the statistics are even more alarming for African American children, who are 5.5 times more likely to drown than their white counterparts. Additionally, 64% of minority children do not know how to swim. Through this partnership, Sperry and Tankproof aim to confront these concerning statistics and empower the next generation of swimmers. Tankproof will collaborate with Sperry to educate consumers and employees about the important equity issues faced by communities of color concerning water activities.

"We are so proud to have Sperry join us in our mission to empower youth and save lives," said Thurman and Torrence Thomas, the co-founders of Tankproof.  "Sperry is the perfect partner as they are synonymous with the joy the water can bring.  With our aligned values and beliefs, together we can make waves across America and sink the stats!"

The collaboration between Sperry and Tankproof began in 2022 as part of Sperry's purpose platform, "All For Water. Water For All." This initiative reflects the brand's commitment to creating a more equitable environment for everyone on the water. In 2022, Sperry showcased the inspiring story of Thurman and Torrence Thomas, the co-founders of Tankproof, through the docuseries "Reclaim Your Water." Directed by Faith Briggs and created in collaboration with Claima, the series aimed to raise awareness and inspire positive change in the water space. To watch the short film, click here.

"At Sperry, we recognize the transformative power of water in providing balance, energy, and serenity," said Elizabeth Drori, Chief Marketing Officer at Sperry. "However, we are aware that the water has not been an equitable space for everyone. It is our privilege to partner with Tankproof in offering free swim lessons to children and working towards creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and safe on the water."

Sperry will offer the opportunity for shoppers to donate to Tankproof on its e-commerce shop at checkout in July and August.

To learn more about the tour, volunteer as a swim instructor, or enroll a child in free swim lessons, please visit Tankproof's website.

About Sperry: Founded in 1935 by Paul Sperry, an avid sailor, inventor, and explorer, Sperry is an iconic American footwear brand. It has remained at the forefront of innovation for over eight decades, renowned as the creator of the world's first boat shoe. With a commitment to inclusivity, environmental consciousness, community engagement, and purpose-driven initiatives, Sperry continues to provide individuals with the tools for memorable experiences on, off, and by the water. Sperry is a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. www.sperry.com  @sperry

About Tankproof: Tankproof is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing swimming lessons and food security to underprivileged children. Their mission is to "sink the stats" by equipping youth with the knowledge and resources to navigate life's challenges. Since 2011, Tankproof has empowered thousands of children with the life-saving skill of swimming. For more information about Tankproof and their impactful work, please visit their website. https://www.tankproof.org @tankproof

SOURCE Sperry