DENVER — Denver officials hope to solve the city's lifeguard shortage with cash incentives.
Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO) hopes to attract and screen applicants through the Denver Workforce Services division and boost the lifeguard pipeline for Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR).
Lifeguard applicants who successfully pass Denver's certification requirements and begin work will receive $1,000 through Denver Workforce Services.
To become eligible for the $1,000 incentive, lifeguard applicants ages 15 and up must pass the swimming certification test administered by DPR including:
- Swimming 300 yards (no back or sidestroke).
- Treading water using only legs for two minutes.
- Completing a timed event that involves bringing a 10-pound weight to the surface in a simulated rescue scenario.
Applicants must complete their certification after June 21 and begin working by Sept. 30. DPR said it will pay the full cost of certification or renewal for job applicants.
Denver lifeguards currently earn $15.87 per hour.
Interested applicants can find more information at denvergov.org/lifeguards.
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