It started with our little brother.
Adam survived a drowning in our backyard pool when he was 14 months old. In 2020, his big brother and sisters (that’s us) started Because of ADAM: Allies in the Drowning Awareness Movement, so other families could learn from his story. His village has been growing ever since.
To end childhood drowning by teaching water safety through the lessons of the past, education in the present, and the generations of the future.
Learn from our past. Protect your future.
Allies
in the
Drowning
Awareness
Movement
“Everyone loves Adam, and we are all better and smarter people because of him.”
Lea, Adam’s sister, age 7
Our values
Honest
We tell the truth about drowning, including the hard parts, and we cite our sources.
Hopeful
Adam is proof that hope matters. Drowning is preventable, and every family can add layers of protection.
Without blame
Drowning happens to loving, careful families. Shame keeps people silent, and silence costs lives.
Community
It takes a village. We work alongside parents, schools, first responders, swim instructors and other drowning prevention groups.
Our team
Shannon Matherne
Mom · Nurse
Adam’s biggest advocate. She went back to school to become a nurse so she could care for kids like Adam.
Rickey Matherne
Dad · ISR & Red Cross CPR instructor
Teaches babies and toddlers to roll onto their backs and float, and teaches CPR to anyone who will learn it.
Rickey, Grace, Avery & Lea
Adam’s brother & sisters · Founders, 2020
We started Because of ADAM so our little brother’s story could keep other kids safe.
Accountable to our village
Because of ADAM is a family-run nonprofit effort. We’ll post our registration details here as soon as they’re final. We’ll share annual reports and IRS filings on this page as they become available.
Walk with us.
Follow Adam’s journey, share what you learn, and join the movement.