Scarlett Haynes
A member of Chattanooga-based Vision Hospitality Group, Tim Haynes, experienced a devastating tragedy this past July as his three-year old granddaughter, Scarlett Haynes, drowned while attending a pool party. Mr. Haynes, who is the general manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Chattanooga/Hamilton Place, has been with Vision for the past 12 years, where he has impacted numerous lives through his leadership and compassion. This disaster hit close to home for the Vision team.
In response to this loss, Vision partnered with the Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center, at 3739 Powers Ct, to launch the Swim for Scarlett memorial program. Swim for Scarlett honors the Haynes family by providing 20 Vision associates and/or their immediate family members with one month of swimming lessons.
“It’s wonderful working for a company that is able to band together during times of tragedy to show support for our family of team members,” said Jenelle Hawkins, Vision Hospitality Group Corporate Training manager. “Our greatest hope is not only that we can honor Scarlett’s life by helping to provide swimming safety and education, but that we show Tim Haynes and his family how much his service and dedication means to all those around him.”
Recipients of the scholarship were announced mid-September, and included ages ranging from 1 to early 60’s. A variety of classes hosted by the Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center were included in the scholarship, such as Baby and Me, Beginner, Advanced and Adult (15+). Based on ability, the participants had the flexibility to choose which level of classes to enroll.
“The world is made up of 71% water. Everyone should have the opportunity to learn and be safe in and around the water,” said Malu Hammans, Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center.
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, among preventable injuries, drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1-4 years of age, the second leading cause of death for children 5-14 years of age, and the third leading cause for children under 1 and older teens ages 15-17.