A number of members gathered recently at the Westwood Heights Swim Club, 1144 N. 38th St., Allentown, to celebrate 50 years of serving the community.

In 1960, Kem Katz got the idea to start a pool in his neighborhood when his children were ages 7, 8 and 9.

His challenge was to raise the money, find the land, obtain the clearances, find the right contractor and members, and gather plenty of volunteers.

Katz determined he needed 150 families to give $300 each. Those families would receive a stock certificate.

A groundbreaking ceremony took place March 22, 1962, with construction following the very next day.

The pool opened in 1963.

Member records and files were available at the 50th anniversary celebration showing meeting minutes, an artist rendition of the club by Lee Everett and a groundbreaking photo.

Records show lifeguard salaries in 1963 were $2,163.75 in comparison to salaries of $33,000 in 2012.

Swimming pool supplies and maintenance in 1963 was $1,068.63 compared to $8,000 in 2012.

Katz was the very first member and president for the first few years.

"I am most proud of the improvements and that it has continued all these years," Katz said.

Volunteers have always been a part of the swim club and are a big part of their success.

The current president is Dawn Stang.

"We're really proud we've made it to 50 years," Stang said. "We are still chugging along with volunteers and are always looking for new members."

For additional information about the swim club, visit westwoodheightsswimclub.com.