Robert “Robby” Fritscher comes from a swimming family. In school, swimming was a big part of his identity and community — practice, meets and camaraderie.

In 2001, the family lost Robby’s nephew, Joseph (“JoJo”), to a drowning accident. In the midst of grief, Robby was inspired to start JoJo’s Hope, to provide swimming lessons to children with physical and developmental disabilities.

The program has spread across the region and is currently anchored at Franco’s Athletic Club, where Robby is the aquatic director. Children of all levels of ability participate in lessons, but also competitive swimming at local and national meets as part of the Special Olympics and USA Swimming. Many have gone on to become champion swimmers.

Swimming has become a therapeutic outlet for the children, just as it was for Robby. A community of swimmers and family has built up around JoJo’s Hope, supporting and cheering on children who often lack access to team sports or activities. Regardless of cognitive or physical ability “on land,” each and every child gains additional mobility in the water, a delight that has some participants swimming for two hours each day.

For his part, Robby knows each swimmer in JoJo’s Hope by name. Like any good coach, he gives love and patience, but also a little goodnatured teasing to bring out smiles. Robby runs JoJo’s hope as a second, but unpaid, full-time job — arranging practices, bringing the kids to competitive meets, and anchoring the swimming family around him — all of which has had a profound impact on the children in his care, and all of it in honor of JoJo’s memory.