SAVANNAH – Nearly $60,000 has been counted so far from the Splash Bash, held Saturday at the Savannah Aquatic Center.
The Andrew County Aquatics Initiative, a citizens group working to find solutions for the future of aquatics in Andrew County, organized the event.
ACAI planned the event with a goal of $50,000 to launch a capital campaign to build a new community aquatic center in Savannah. The committee members were thrilled to have raised much more, even with a short two-week period to raise the funds.
“The community really has come out and shown that this project is really important,” said Mary Ingersoll, ACAI Secretary. “We thought it was a big deal, but having so many others showing with their pocketbooks that it is important to them too is very encouraging.”
The day began with coffee & conversation, followed by fundraising laps from the swim team, and wrapped with a party to celebrate all that the pool has meant to our community for over six decades.
The initiative comes after the Savannah Parks Board and City of Savannah announced in summer 2025 that the current Aquatic Center is beyond repair and will close. The ACAI formed in response to this, recognizing the pool’s importance as a gathering spot, a health and safety resource and a cornerstone of small-town living in Savannah.
The ACAI is calling on the community to “Pool Together” and support this mission through donations, time and energy.
The morning Coffee and Conversation was attended by more than 40 interested people from ages 11 to 80. The ACAI presented key information about the fate of the current facility and plans moving forward. Many great questions were asked and led to excellent conversations.
The Savannah Summer Rec Swim Team gathered and held a “Pool-a-Thon” where more than 70 swimmers gathered to swim and run laps to raise money for the cause. Participants ranged from age three through high school swim team members. All were excited to contribute to the campaign.
When asked why he was running laps, Creed Olsen, 9, said, “We need money to get a new pool!”
More than 100 pool fans of all ages attended the afternoon pool party. While water temps were chilly, everyone enjoyed a final day of play in and around the pool including inflatable boat relays, a bounce house, foam party, and games.
The Community is invited to join in the conversation at Collaboration Sessions later this month: Sunday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m. or Tuesday, Sept. 30, 7 p.m. at The Space Between, 412 Court St., Savannah.
More information about the ACAI can be found at tinyurl.com/ACAIPool
The ACAI has established a Field of Interest Fund with The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri, which allows for tax-deductible donations.
Donations can be made online at https://tinyurl.com/ACAquatics. Checks made out to NWMCF can be mailed to 1010 West St. Maartens Drive, Suite C St. Joseph, 64506, with “ACAI” in the memo.
