Campaign launched for Junior Lifeguard headquarters

A group of former Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard instructors have launched a capital campaign to build a new program headquarters.

They will be raising funds at Junior Guard tryouts, which begin Sunday and continue into March.

Their new organization, the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Foundation, plans to continue after the headquarters capital campaign. Its goal is to “preserve, complement and enhance the city of Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Program,” according to a news release.

The current Junior Guards headquarters is in temporary trailers near the Balboa Pier. Board member Trevor Gregor said the organization will work with city administrators to find a suitable design and location for the new building.

One of its first steps, though, is gaining tax-exempt status, he said. The group has already applied.

— Mike Reicher

Twitter: @mreicher