Underwater pics with 'Scuba Santa' raises funds for aquatic program at Kittanning YMCA
Take a plunge with St. Nick and pose for an underwater holiday photo Wednesday, Dec. 14 at the Richard G. Snyder YMCA in Kittanning.
All proceeds benefit the YMCA’s annual campaign.
The new fundraiser is in partnership with Scott’s Scuba Service in Freeport.
“We’re so excited to be helping the YMCA with their underwater Santa photos,” said underwater photographer Jennifer Dillaman of Scott’s Scuba Service.
Santa, along with Dillaman, will use scuba gear to remain submerged underwater, but participants can just hold their breath. Dillaman will be ready to snap a photo in seconds, so participants will need to go underwater for only a few seconds.
Aquatics director Mary Ann Lundgren came up with the splashy fundraising idea after seeing another similar event on social media.
“Monies raised will go to help youngsters learn how to swim. I have a lot of excited people, and my staff wants to get together to get a group photo,” Lundgren said.
The photo sessions will last from 6 to 8 p.m. There are no residency requirements.
So far the Y has about 15 time slots remaining. It may add a day to meet demand.
Photo sessions are $10 each for Y members and $20 for nonmembers.
Registration is required, but only one reservation is necessary per family.
Lundgren said anyone who can go underwater for a few seconds may participate, and it’s up to parents or guardians to make the decision on young children. Family and individual photos will be taken.
Adults must be in the pool within an arm’s reach of children 12 and younger who have not passed the Y’s swim test.
The photos will take place in the more shallow section of the pool.
Scuba Santa will be dressed in a Christmas-themed T-shirt and board shorts, Lundgren said.
During the submerged session with Santa, participants can wear goggles or just open their eyes.
Customers will receive digital photos, and participants will be given a time to be photo- ready poolside.
The Kittanning Y is at 1150 N. Water St.
To register or for more information call 724-545-9622.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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