The California Aquatic Therapy & Wellness Services, Inc. —best known as Pools of Hope— history began in 1956, in a small backyard pool, by a dedicated civic leader and professional swimmer, Mrs. Evelyn duPont. Ms. duPont had developed polio as an adult and rehabilitated herself through aquatic therapy. Her own recovery inspired her to open the backyard pool to provide free swim lessons to children with disabilities, ensuring that all youth had access to therapeutic activities.

Pools of Hope was later incorporated and became a non-profit 501(c)3 organization on April 17, 1963. With widespread support from the community, Pools of Hope purchased a free-standing outdoor pool facility at 6801 Long Beach Boulevard, in Long Beach, CA, to enable more community members to benefit from aquatic services. In 1977, a major renovation was completed to enclose the facility for year-round usage, which also allowed us to expand services to people of all ages living with symptoms of aging, chronic conditions, injuries, or a disability. 

We’ve gone through a number of names over the years: California Pools for the Handicapped (1963), the California Pools of Hope, Inc. (1996), and California Aquatic Therapy & Wellness Center, Inc. (2009) — however, we are best known in the North Long Beach community simply as the Pools of Hope.

Pools of Hope is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.