News Summary
The annual A Walk on Water surf therapy event returns to Huntington Beach, empowering children with unique needs through surfing and community spirit. Families come together to celebrate accomplishments, engage with volunteers, and enjoy activities like art and music. This heartwarming event encourages confidence in participants, fostering a nurturing space for both children and their parents. Open to everyone, it’s a joyful experience filled with laughter and connection.
Huntington Beach Welcomes Back A Walk on Water Surf Therapy Event
In the sunny shores of Huntington Beach, excitement is building as the annual A Walk on Water surf therapy event rolls back around! Scheduled for this Saturday at the north side of the Huntington Beach Pier, this heartwarming event is all about empowering children with unique needs while having a blast in the waves.
Building Confidence One Wave at a Time
For many families, this event holds a special place in their hearts. The Fletcher family, for instance, has been part of this beautiful journey since the very beginning. Alden, a vibrant 17-year-old who happens to have Down syndrome, finds pure joy at these events. The thrill of surfing is just a cherry on top; the sense of pride and accomplishment it brings is truly inspirational. Alden’s enthusiasm is contagious as he cheerfully encourages his friends, giving out exuberant high-fives after they tackle the waves.
Volunteers Bringing Joy
The success of the event wouldn’t be possible without a dedicated group of volunteers. Folks from all walks of life come together, putting their hearts into ensuring that each child has a meaningful experience. Local Huntington Beach volunteer, David Gins, has seen firsthand the uplifting effects that surfing can have on participants. Engaging with the ocean doesn’t just spark joy; it also offers remarkable emotional and mental health benefits, helping children discover their strengths in ways they never imagined.
A Joyful Community Experience
Agatha Wallen, who directs family engagement for the organization, emphasizes the magical bond formed through social interaction. This program not only uplifts children with special needs but also creates a nurturing space for their parents. It’s a tight-knit community where everyone can share moments of laughter and support, a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
With each passing year, this nonprofit expands its reach across the country, hosting events on the East Coast and in Northern California before returning to the beloved Huntington Beach each summer. The event this weekend is open to everyone, and participating is a free experience for spectators.
Activities for All
From the early hours of the morning, the beach will be a hub of activity. The event features two hour-long morning sessions commencing at 9 a.m., followed by two afternoon sessions. Each session promises to be filled with laughter, joy, and achievements! Rather than focusing solely on surfing skills, participants are celebrated for every tiny step they take, whether that’s simply entering the water or riding a wave.
The highlight of the day includes awards ceremonies to honor each child’s efforts, symbolizing that every achievement deserves recognition. Those who participate in the surf therapy program can witness visible transformations in their children, including elevated confidence and improved social skills. For many, the thrill of riding a wave isn’t just about surfing; it’s about claiming a new sense of self.
Art, Music, and More
Besides surfing, there’s a treasure trove of activities waiting to engage families. Expect to find art tents and music areas, providing creative outlets and entertainment throughout the day. This multifaceted approach ensures that every family member, regardless of age or ability, can enjoy the festivities and connect with one another.
Join the Fun!
Registration for volunteers is still available on the A Walk on Water website, and it’s a perfect opportunity for those looking to be part of this extraordinary initiative. As the event approaches, enthusiasm builds in the air, promising a heartwarming experience for all. So, if you’re in the Huntington Beach area this Saturday, swing by the pier – it’s a celebration of community, joy, and the waves!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Surf Therapy Event Returns
- Wikipedia: Huntington Beach, California
- Parents: Surf City for Families
- Google Search: Surf therapy
- Daily Breeze: Surf Awards and Celebrations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Surfing
- Kidding Around Greenville: Huntington Beach State Park
- Google News: Surf therapy
- Dogster: Are Dogs Allowed on Huntington Beach
- Time Out: Dog-Friendly Beaches
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
