Atlantic City’s coastal heritage is set to take center stage as the International Lifeguard Museum, Inc. (ILM) prepares to host its official Kick-Off Celebration on Aug. 19, at the historic Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.
The 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to honoring lifeguards as essential frontline first responders, is transforming the iconic boardwalk venue into its potential permanent home. The milestone event will bring together community leaders, water safety advocates, donors, and sponsors for an evening featuring live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. Special guest AC Mike will open the evening, with singer, songwriter, and producer Dave Damiani serving as emcee.
Founded in 2024, the ILM draws deeply from the history of the Atlantic City Beach Patrol (ACBP). Established in 1855, the ACBP stands as the oldest operational lifeguard organization in the United States, making Atlantic City a fitting birthplace for a museum with worldwide relevance.
The museum project has received vital backing from the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), which has awarded two reimbursable grants totaling $89,000 to spearhead concept development, budget planning, and marketing initiatives.
“This investment marks a defining moment for the International Lifeguard Museum,” Chris Brown, ILM Board President, said. “CRDA’s commitment provides the momentum needed to transform years of planning into a destination that honors the legacy of lifeguards, advances water safety education, and strengthens Atlantic City’s role as the birthplace of modern beach patrols.”
Beyond celebrating history, the museum aims to address an urgent public safety crisis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the United States records roughly 4,000 fatal drownings and 8,000 non-fatal drownings annually. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5 to 14. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports approximately 300,000 drowning deaths annually, nearly a quarter of which involve children under five.
Through interactive exhibits, physical and virtual displays, and comprehensive educational storytelling, the museum hopes to change these statistics by building a proactive culture of water safety for the 20 million annual visitors who walk Atlantic City’s shoreline.
The ILM is actively raising $4 million to complete the museum’s build-out, offering multiple naming and sponsorship opportunities.
Tickets for the August 19 fundraiser are $15 for first responders and $25 for general admission, with free parking provided for all attendees. All proceeds will directly support the museum’s educational mission.
To purchase tickets, secure a sponsorship, or learn more about the project, visit internationallifeguardmuseum.org.
