The Hernando County Family YMCA recently held a deeply meaningful ceremony to honor the life of Maxton, one of our young YMCA members who tragically lost his life by drowning. Surrounded by family, friends, YMCA staff and community partners, a beautifully crafted bench and plaque were dedicated in his memory.
The ceremony began with a moment of prayer, offering space for reflection and healing. Following the prayer, heartfelt words were shared by Kent Reiber, Executive Director of the Hernando County Family YMCA, Christian Engle, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Suncoast and members of Maxton’s family. Each speaker honored Maxton’s life and emphasized the importance of protecting future generations by ensuring access to lifesaving water safety education.
During his remarks, Kent highlighted the progress the Hernando community has made in reducing childhood drownings, stating, “Progress like this doesn’t happen by chance.” His words highlighted the intentional, collaborative efforts among families, community leaders and organizations such as the YMCA to prevent such tragedies.
The numbers reflect this significant impact. Hernando County recorded 11 drownings in 2023, a number that dropped to two in 2024, and this year, zero drownings took place. While even one loss is too many, the trend shows how education, awareness and expanded access to swim lessons and drowning prevention resources can save lives.
As one of the nation’s largest providers of water safety instruction, the YMCA remains committed to equipping children and families with the skills they need to stay safe in and around the water.
The Y offers a wide range of resources, including swim lessons, safety around water programs, FLOAT, lifeguard training and community outreach initiatives focused on drowning prevention. These programs teach essential skills such as floating, safe entry and exit, recognizing water hazards and what to do in an emergency.
The bench dedicated to Maxton will serve as both a memorial and a call to action, a reminder that drowning is preventable and that continued advocacy and education are vital. With support from families, community partners and the YMCA of the Suncoast, Hernando County is taking meaningful steps to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn to swim and stay safe.