As we prepare to launch our first floating river pool, we are thrilled to honor journalist, author, and advocate Don Lemon.
Join us on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 6pm at Manhatta, so that we can build a better future—together. + POOL's Gala will gather NYC's most visionary changemakers to celebrate 10 years of innovation and support + POOL in its mission to reclaim NYC's waters for all New Yorkers.
Enjoy cocktails, dinner, and entertainment on an unforgettable evening at Danny Meyer's Manhatta, as we embrace the limitless possibilities of our city, its waters and our shared dream for a better tomorrow.
What
+ POOL anNual Gala
Where
Manhatta 28 Liberty St 60th floor, New York, NY 10005
Honoree Don Lemon is an Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist, author, and advocate for equity and progress. Known for his fearless approach to storytelling, he has anchored some of the most pivotal moments in recent history, from breaking news coverage of Hurricane Katrina to the Arab Spring and the death of Osama Bin Laden. Recently, Lemon launched The Don Lemon Show, adding to his legacy as one of the most influential voices in media. A trailblazer both on and off-screen, Don has been recognized by Ebony, Out, and The Advocate for his impact as a leader in the LGBTQ and Black communities.
Lemon’s career has been built on holding institutions accountable and uplifting community-driven solutions. As a champion of social equity, Don understands the challenges we seek to overcome in order to ensure all New Yorkers have free and safe access to their waters. For Lemon, drowning prevention is deeply personal. By championing + POOL’s initiatives, he hopes to help ensure that all New Yorkers -- regardless of background -- have the opportunity to learn to swim, enjoy the water safely and experience the joy and freedom it brings.
+ POOL is driving free and safe access to the waters around New York City for swimming through education, advocacy, and the construction of an innovative new East River Swim Facility. We support the preservation, restoration, and conservation of natural bodies of water; promote water stewardship; and provide quality swim instruction and environmental education to prepare New Yorkers for a future where all have access to the water that surrounds them.
Construct the world's first water-filtering floating river swim facility. We are currently constructing our first river swim facility thanks to the visionary support of New York City and State, which means we need your help now more than ever.
Design free swim and environmental education programs. We’re committed to expanding free learn-to-swim programs for youth and adults across the five boroughs and raising awareness of the issues affecting our water quality through creative projects.
Water Connects Us. Help reclaim the waters surrounding New York City, so that we can unlock the benefits of swimming and create a healthier, more vibrant, and inclusive urban environment for all!