Walt Disney World’s Typhoon Lagoon made a splash for a powerful cause on Thursday as it hosted 1,000 students from seven Florida nonprofit organizations during the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson—an annual global event organized by the World Waterpark Association to promote swim safety and drowning prevention.

Children from organizations including Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, Girl Scouts of Citrus, Alianza Center, Foundation for Foster Children, ELEVATE Orlando, PACE Center for Girls, and Boys & Girls Clubs took part in the engaging and educational experience. The Disney site marked the largest single location worldwide to participate in this year’s event.

More than 50 Disney lifeguards led the lessons, offering students expert instruction in water safety and basic swim skills, while 40 Disney VoluntEARS cheered them on. For many of the children, it was their first-ever swim lesson—made even more memorable by surprise appearances from Mickey Mouse and Stitch, who joined in the fun and celebrated with the kids.

“Hosting an event like this gives our cast members the chance to not only connect with the kids in our community, but to share something they’re knowledgeable and passionate about,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World. “Helping kids pair that skills-based learning with the fun of our water parks creates memories and moments that will stick with them forever.”

Following the swim lesson, all 1,000 participants were treated to a full day of play and adventure in Typhoon Lagoon.

“We’re in Florida, so there’s water everywhere, and it’s really important for the kids to know how to swim,” said Natasha Yeung, Youth Program Supervisor for the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. “For most of our kids, this is their favorite field trip of the year. They love being able to experience this with all of their really close friends, and then also getting to meet characters like Mickey and Stitch.”

The event is part of Disney’s broader commitment to community outreach this summer. In the coming weeks, Walt Disney World will launch its annual Back-To-School Supply Drive, further supporting local families in need.

Families visiting Disney this summer can continue the water safety conversation while enjoying both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, now open for the season. As an added bonus, guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels receive complimentary water park admission on the day of their arrival.

To learn more about Disney’s community initiatives, visit DisneyExperiences.com.