NEW YORK, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Michael Phelps, a 14-time Olympic gold medalist, teamed with Visa Inc., a Worldwide Olympic Partner, on Thursday to present a Play Every Day jump-start grant to the YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) of Greater New York. The funds will help the YMCA expand participation in its 2nd Grade Swim program, purchase new swimming equipment, and also support aquatic facility expansions in Brooklyn and Queens.

Olympic gold medallist Michael Phelps helps a girl as she swims at the YMCA of Greater New York in New York Aug. 28, 2008.

The announcement is a continuation of Visa and its family of Olympic athletes ongoing commitment to the Partnership for Play Every Day, an effort to raise national awareness and support for increasing and improving the spaces where America's youth can play. "For America's kids, the time to play and swim is today," said Phelps. "We need everyone's help in providing all kids with safe and well-equipped spaces where they can exercise, have fun and maybe even begin to pursue their own Olympic dreams."

The Partnership for Play Every Day brings together organizations including nonprofits, businesses and government agencies to ensure that all children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.

Olympic gold medallist Michael Phelps teaches swimming exercise techniques with children at the YMCA of Greater New York in New York Aug. 28, 2008

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