Thirty-eight years ago, college lacrosse players and retired Olympians attempted the first-ever relay swim across Long Island Sound. The swim was challenging. The intent was simple. Raise awareness and donations for cancer research and detection, and to innovate treatment and improve the quality of life.

​We’ve grown from a single relay to more than 60,000 volunteers and donors this year, a record number of donors for SAA. In the first year, we raised $5,000. This year, we raised $12.4M, another record for SAA.

​Just like our grant fellows are innovating new cancer treatments and improving the quality of life, Swim Across America is innovating.

We’ve made it easier and added more ways for donors to give. We’ve integrated employer match giving. Impact reports are featured on each community’s swim page. We introduced Dash, our dolphin mascot, to bring energy and smiles to the swims and hospital visits.

​We are integrating seamless donor-advised fund giving. We are simplifying the self-registration process. Teams are recognized on our Champions Wall. Chapters are establishing “Junior Advisory Boards” to provide high school students with volunteer and leadership development opportunities. More of your stories are being shared.

Phoenix is a new SAA community, and more colleges are hosting SAA charity swims, expanding our coast-to-coast reach. New WaveMaker recognition is coming. And more.

​Our investments honor the spirit of the 1987 relay swim. Raise awareness and donations for cancer research and detection, and to innovate treatment and improve the quality of life.

I’m often asked how someone can get involved with Swim Across America. A few ideas come to mind. Volunteer with your local SAA chapter, invite your friends to join the cause, and share stories with donors about our impact.

​Our community, the grants, and the stories wouldn’t be possible without you.

​Thank you for Making Waves to Fight Cancer,
Rob Butcher
Swim Across America |CEO