"Saving lives one child at a time"
About WGF:
Drowning is the leading cause of death in toddlers. The truth is drowning happens when adults become distracted and a small child is near the water. Our goal is to spread awareness about childhood drowning and keep as many children safe from this tragedy as possible. Through the use of simple strategy we believe water guardian tags can play a significant role in the reduction of childhood drowning.
Get your free tag
Motivation:
On September 2nd, 2015, Heather & Daniel Pfeffer were devastated when their 27 month old daughter, Saige Liat, remained unconscious after being rescued within minutes of her accidental drowning. After intubation and several rounds of CPR at a local hospital, her heartbeat returned and she was transferred by EMS to a level 3 trauma center. In the ambulance, Heather was told, "You will talk about this at her wedding." Despite her medical team’s efforts, the next 36 hours proved much different - on the morning of September 4th, precious Saige passed away. With her infectious smile and open arms, Saige was a gift not only to her parents, but to everyone who knew her. Her short life was too special to be forgotten. To ensure that her legacy of happiness and joy lives on, Heather & Dan created the Spreading Smiles for Saige foundation in honor of Saige Liat Pfeffer.
Get your free tagEvents:
The Water Guardian Foundation was founded in 2016 originally under the name Spreading Smiles for Saige Foundation. The Foundation raised over $400,000 since inception all of which has been donated to organizations that help children in need. Recipients have been the Memorial Sloan Kettering Pediatric Cancer Center, Kids in Crises Organization, and the New York City Parks and Recreation Department.
Many events have been held over the years which have been featured on both local and national news to help spread awareness on Childhood drowning. Some of the successful events are Family Fun Day at St. Catherine's Park in New York City, Norwalk Triathlon and Soul Cycle ride for water safety.
Presentations on Water Guardian Tags and their importance have been given to the Westchester Board of Health Department Executive Committee, Multiple local nursery school events, Westmed Pediatric, Swim Tank for childhood swimming advancement, The Greenburgh Nature Center, The Greenburgh Community center and openings of many Westchester County Municipal Pools and Parks each year.
