Building on legacy: Expanding the reach of 4M Swim Club

By Sen. Cory V. McCraySpecial to the AFROThroughout my life, I have often paused to consider how I can impact the future for others. This reflection is one of the reasons I became a public servant, starting as a delegate in the House and subsequently being elected to the Maryland Senate to represent the 45th Legislative District. Building on a legacy and helping others to do the same has been a guiding principle for me in this role.Cory V. McCray is a senator representing the 45th Legislative District, which covers parts of east and northeast Baltimore, in the Maryland General Assembly. (Courtesy photo)One example of a commitment to legacy is a learn-to-swim program that began as a three-month initiative by a Baltimore City physical education teacher in his backyard pool in the Windsor Mill community of Baltimore County. Today, this program has blossomed into a life-changing force, credited for teaching nearly 20,000 people—primarily from the Black and Brown community—how to swim. This program showcases the profound impact of dedicated community service.Earlier this year, a mutual friend introduced me to Marvin Thorpe Jr., a man whose faith in God, passion for his community, and dedication to building on his father’s legacy...