More than 100 children, family members, mentors, and nonprofit staff from across Long Island enjoyed a day of summer fun at Splish Splash Water Park during the fifth annual Carefree Day of Sun and Water Park Fun, hosted by Splish Splash and Jovia Financial Credit Union on July 9, 2026. Participants received complimentary admission, food, beverages, and a full day to enjoy the park’s attractions.
Each year, Jovia and Splish Splash partner with local nonprofit organizations to provide children, families, and mentors with a memorable summer experience where they can spend time together, build friendships, and simply enjoy being kids. This year's participating organizations included Helen Keller National Center's summer program for DeafBlind youth, United Veterans Beacon House (UVBH), and Family & Children's Association (FCA). Since the program's inception, more than 500 children and family members have participated in Carefree Day.
"Carefree Day has become one of our favorite community traditions because it brings together incredible nonprofit partners and creates lasting memories for children and families," said Peter Purpura, Vice President, Business Development at Jovia Financial Credit Union. "At Jovia, we believe in investing in experiences that bring people together, and we're proud to continue this partnership with Splish Splash to make summer a little brighter for the families these organizations serve."
"With a long-standing history of serving Long Island families, we're proud to partner with Jovia each year to welcome children and families for a day dedicated to fun, laughter, and making memories," said Mike Bengtson, General Manager of Splish Splash. “Community partnerships like Carefree Day are an important part of who we are, and we're honored to help make this experience possible.”
"At Helen Keller Services, we strive to provide youth who are DeafBlind with access to adventurous and fun experiences that foster confidence, connection and joy" said Sue Ruzenski, EdD, Chief Executive Officer of Helen Keller Services. "Our summer youth program invites DeafBlind youth from across the country to gain vocational skills but also fosters friendships and shared learning through community experiences. Several participants joined in for a day at Splish Splash, and for some, it was their first time visiting a large water park with so many daring options. This new environment provided participants with vision loss, an opportunity to explore and navigate an unfamiliar environment working with a human guide and a support service provider to ensure full access to the park’s attractions. The experience was memorable, one that will stay with participants for years to come. We are grateful to Jovia and Splish Splash for making this meaningful experience possible."
"Our veterans and their families so enjoyed the carefree day at Splish Splash," said Frank Amalfitano, President and CEO of United Veterans Beacon House. "We are grateful to Jovia and Splish Splash for providing a fun-filled day together. Creating memories and enjoying experiences that strengthen family bonds remind our veterans how much their community cares."
“At Family & Children's Association, we believe building stronger families and individuals means more than providing essential services, it also means creating opportunities for connection and lasting memories," said Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds, President and CEO of Family & Children's Association. "We’re incredibly grateful to Jovia and Splish Splash for making this special day possible and for their commitment to enriching the lives of all Long Islanders."
Each participant also received a Jovia backpack, commemorative T-shirt, and reusable water bottle to enjoy throughout the day and take home as a reminder of the experience.
