Patagonia Regional Aquatics Center

The Patagonia Regional Aquatics Center (PRAC), a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization, is responsible for operating the community pool located on the grounds of Patagonia Union High School for the benefit of all residents in Patagonia and the unincorporated towns of Canelo, Elgin and Sonoita in eastern Santa Cruz County. Having recently installed a heater in the pool, PRAC now is able to keep the pool open during all but the coldest months of the year. The range of aquatics programs includes dedicated times for lap swimming, water aerobics led by rotating volunteer leaders, swim lessons and water safety taught by certified instructors and open swim sessions, some of which are targeted to school aged students, others at working adults. The pool is also used for physical education classes and serves as a venue for water-oriented special events. 
 
In addition to allowing kids, adults, families and groups to get relief from summer heat and just enjoy the water, these aquatics programs also (a) prevent drowning, a leading cause of death among infants and small children; (b) improve physical and mental wellbeing; (c) help individuals recover from injuries and illness; and (d) provide a venue for social interactions that help build a sense of community and for some, alleviate loneliness and isolation.

PRAC is an all volunteer organization, except for the paid lifeguards, most of whom are students enrolled in the Patagonia Union High School. In addition to serving on the board of directors and committees, volunteers clean, maintain and repair the pool and its related facilities and maintain the pool's proper chemical levels ensuring a safe and inviting aquatics experience. Some volunteers also serve as lifeguards. Despite having such a stellar corps of volunteers, PRAC must raise over $100,000 annually to cover the costs of operating the pool from mid-April through mid-November. Income from grants, fundraising events and pool entrance fees may cover up to half of the annual budget, but contributions from individuals and businesses are essential to keeping the pool operating at a level that provides maximum benefits to the residents of eastern Santa Cruz County.