NARROWSBURG – On Saturday, July 25, Tusten Social board member Jean Kogut will take on the longest open water swim of her life—10 miles across Lake Memphremagog in Newport, Vermont—with a goal of raising $10,000 for the nonprofit’s free community programs.

Now in its third year, Jean’s annual swim fundraiser has become more than a personal athletic challenge. Every dollar raised supports Tusten Social’s free programs, including Kid Club, Teen Club, Sage Sessions, Community Movie Nights, and other initiatives that bring people together across the Upper Delaware River region.

As attendance at Tusten Social programs continues to grow, so does the need for community support. Funds raised through “Jean’s 10-Mile Swim” go directly toward programming—not overhead or facility expenses.

“This started as a way to give my swim a greater purpose,” said Kogut. “When you’re six or seven miles into a swim and your body wants to quit, knowing that people are counting on you—and that every stroke is helping your community—becomes incredibly motivating. It’s no longer just about finishing for yourself.”

The swim is part of the Kingdom Swim, an internationally recognized open water swimming event in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. The 10-mile course is expected to take Kogut more than six hours to complete and represents the culmination of months of training.

For Kogut, swimming is as much about mental wellness as physical endurance. “Swimming gives me time to process whatever life is throwing at me,” she said. “At first I’m thinking through work, relationships, family—everything that’s on my mind. Eventually, those thoughts fade, and it becomes deeply meditative. I’m listening to my breathing, counting strokes, focusing on technique, and just being present. It’s one of the healthiest ways I know to work through life’s challenges.”

Greta Knutzen, Co-Founder and Board President of Tusten Social, said Kogut’s commitment reflects the spirit of the organization. “Jean embodies what community is all about,” said Knutzen. “She’s taking on an incredible personal challenge because she believes everyone deserves access to programs that build connection, reduce isolation, and strengthen our community. We’re deeply grateful for her generosity, determination, and leadership.”

Community members can follow Jean’s training and progress throughout July on Tusten Social’s social media channels. Donations of any amount are welcome and will help ensure Tusten Social can continue offering free programs to children, teens, older adults, and families throughout the year.

To support Jean’s 10-Mile Swim fundraiser, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-tusten-socials-incredible-work.