RESERVE — St. John Parish Recreation Department’s successful swim lesson program is complete, but there is still plenty of time for water aerobics, which continue through the end of September.

The classes are offered free of charge to those 18 and older from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Alex Roland Reese Swimming Pool at REGALA Park in Reserve, along with 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Mondays.

Classes are also available from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Castle Drive pool in Edgard.

Parish officials are touting the pool offerings following a hugely successful Ashley Kelly Swim Program.

Operated for the fifth consecutive year, the Recreation Department reported more than 200 children and adults participated in 2017, learning life-saving swimming lessons and safety training for in and around swimming pools and other bodies of water.

Organizers stress this could not be possible without devoted swim instructors, including St. John’s own lifeguards.

Akeem Burl, 10-year lifeguard and swim instructor, said there is a need for the service, which is rewarding for all who volunteer.

“It just takes one second for something to happen and, for that, preparation is key,” Akeem said.

His brother, Abdul Burl, a 15-year lifeguard and swim instructor, said it is an honor to provide children an opportunity he never had.

“They really enjoy being able to swim without fear,” Abdul said.

Gregory Rosary, a 15-year-old first-year lifeguard, said he first received swimming lessons through the program just a few years ago.

“When I learned how to swim, I knew I couldn’t stop there,” he said. “I knew I had to teach others and teach my parents and family. I knew I needed to keep learning and be able to save my family if I needed to.”

Lifeguards Tye Phillips, Chardea Berthelot, Neesa Ursua, Madison Stewart and Kendall Martin also devoted their time this summer.

Parish President Natalie Robottom’s administration initiated the program with the help of State Rep. Randal Gaines (D-LaPlace).

“If one life is saved as a result of this program, it is a success,” Robottom said. “We look forward to continuing to make the program larger each year, and I want to thank the Recreational staff and all lifeguards, volunteers and instructors for their time and efforts.”