Surfers for Autism

The Surfers for Autism mission is to unlock the potential of people with developmental delays, support advocacy for autism issues and scientific research. Our focus is to eliminate stigma through public awareness and education and to unite communities through volunteerism (from their website). 

This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend the Surfers for Autism event in Flagler Beach with a few girls from work. As I work with individuals with autism, I figured this would be an awesome experience and a great way to network and meet new people. 

The entire day was so special. I watched a little girl that was terrified of the surf board gradually work her way to sitting on the board when it was laying in the sand. The joy on her parent's faces was so exciting to see and had to have been so rewarding to the surf instructor working with the girl.

Other children were out in the water swimming, floating on the surf boards, and some were even standing on the boards and riding the waves in! It was awesome to watch the surfers interact with the kids and to see how much fun everyone was having. I am definitely going to register to volunteer next year when it's in the area!

If you are in the Florida area or want more information on Surfers for Autism, visit their site!

Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with Surfers for Autism. I just think it's an awesome organization! As always, all opinions are entirely my own.