Rosa Peña: Lifeguard and Winner of the Never Quit Service Award

A Lifeguard's Journey: From Near Drowning to Saving Lives

A lifeguard at the Asser Levy Recreation Center in New York City, Rosa Peña, embodies the spirit of community service with her unwavering dedication. Her journey from a near-drowning experience to a committed public service worker is both inspiring and motivational.

Rosa Peña has spent the last 25 years watching over swimmers, a role she cherishes deeply. "I've been a lifeguard for 25 years, and I love it," Peña says. "I love to see people safe. I love to encourage people to swim. I love, you know, people just doing the exercise."

Her dedication to her work goes beyond a mere job description. For Peña, being a lifeguard is a calling, driven by a personal experience from her childhood. She recalls a time when she almost drowned while swimming at the beach. Fortunately, a stranger rescued her and her sister from the waves. This pivotal moment fueled her determination to become a lifeguard herself, with the goal of saving others.

In recognition of her outstanding service, Peña, a proud member of AFSCME District Council 37, has been honored with the Never Quit Service Award. This accolade celebrates public service workers who exceed expectations in their commitment to improving their communities.

To hear Rosa Peña's story in her own words, watch the video below.