The heartbreaking drowning death of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner has resonated deeply with many, especially here in Metro Detroit.
Warner was a beloved figure for many who grew up watching him on television, but it’s the tragic circumstances of his drowning that have ignited important conversations about water safety.
Two women in Metro Detroit, each having endured their own devastating losses from drowning incidents, are now dedicating their lives to raising awareness and preventing similar tragedies.
They have launched nonprofits aimed at promoting swim safety and providing free swim lessons to children.
Poppy Smith experienced unimaginable grief when she lost her son, Andre V. Seldon, Jr., to a drowning accident a year ago while he was away at college.
Smith also nearly lost her own life in a water-related incident and has since confronted a lifelong fear of pools.
This personal tragedy prompted her to establish the Andre V. Seldon, Jr. Foundation, which focuses on mentoring boys and teaching them how to swim.
“The motivation and the mission behind it is to train as many children in the city of Detroit how to swim. How to fight that fear of swimming,” said Smith. For her, being near water now serves as a form of therapy and hope.
Tonya Arthur shares a similar mission after the loss of her grandson Joshua Mullen, who drowned in a lake frequently visited by the family up north.
Arthur’s family established Joshua’s Dreams Nonprofit to honor his memory and save lives through swim safety education.
“Every time I read or hear of a drowning, it just breaks my heart. Including what we just read about the actor Malcolm Jamal Warner,” said Arthur.
Both Smith and Arthur are actively collaborating with Michigan State lawmakers on House Bill 4477, a proposed law that would require all school districts in the state to provide swim safety instruction.
They believe this legislative step is critical to raising awareness and making swim lessons more accessible, particularly for communities where drowning risks are high.
“I think it would really make a difference because, number one, it’s going to raise awareness to the fact that we need more swim lessons, especially for our community,” Arthur said.
Despite the sorrow and hardship they have faced, these two women are united by their determination to create a positive impact.
Their nonprofits aim to offer free swim lessons and mentorship to children who might otherwise never learn essential water safety skills.
The Andre V. Seldon, Jr. Foundation is hosting its first swim lessons for children tomorrow, marking a hopeful step toward preventing future drownings.
For those interested in learning more or supporting the cause, visit the Andre V. Seldon, Jr. Foundation by clicking here and Joshua’s Dreams Nonprofit by clicking here.