The SunUte Community Center is one of three institutes in the state of Colorado receiving the “American Red Cross Aquatic Examiner Service Award”. This award recognizes lifeguard management and the commitment to safety in programs that SunUte implements.

One of these exemplary aquatic programs being, “Josh the Otter: Water Safety & Awareness Project”. Josh the Otter was originally created to help teach children about water safety behavior that could ultimately be passed on to multiple generations. The project has already distributed thousands of copies of the “Josh the Baby Otter” book to different schools, daycares and institutes in an effort to incorporate lifesaving curriculum.

“The necklace system that SunUte uses to identify swimming levels is working!” American Red Cross Representative, Mike Stagg stated before presenting the award. The aquatics area of the center requires all children to pass a swim test in order to swim in water that goes above their heads.

Twice before, the American Red Cross lifeguard instructors have evaluated the SunUte guard team. They concluded that the staff has a continued desire to learn, and recognized the improvement and perseverance SunUte has shown to not accept status quo. SunUte’s mission is to “provide a safe and welcoming environment by offering quality customer service and knowledgeable staff.”

The Red Cross also commended the commitment that tribal members and employees take to attend training for CPR and First Aid certification annually. The necklace system works, which is why it is now being replicated in swimming pools across the state to ensure safer swimming.

Southern Ute tribal members and employees of SunUte were in attendance for the presentation of the award.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, was Vice Chairman Cheryl A. Frost and Councilwoman Pearl A. Casias on Wednesday, August 8 in the pool area of SunUte.