This is one Torrance Beach event where finishing first is not the point.

The seventh annual South Bay Swim for Mental Health takes place Sunday, September 20, giving participants a choice of 1-mile, 5K and 10K swims along with paddle and kayak options. Organizers describe it as a community swim rather than a race — an event built around showing up for people whose lives have been touched by mental-health challenges.

The fundraiser benefits the South Bay Youth Project, part of South Bay Children’s Health Center, which provides mental-health services for children, teens and young adults. Organizers say the event is volunteer-run and 100% of proceeds go toward the youth program.

For people who do not want to swim, there are still ways to participate through paddling, kayaking, volunteering or simply donating.

It is a good example of what Local Love is meant to highlight: neighbors turning something they enjoy into something that helps other families.

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