California Group's Surf Therapy Program Helps Children with Special Needs Blossom at the NJ Shore
Description
For two days in early June 2025, the nonprofit, A Walk On Water, once again brought its California-based surf therapy program to Spring Lake, New Jersey. Dozens of children living with autism, Down syndrome, and other challenging conditions, had a chance to experience the thrill of riding waves on the ocean with trained surf therapists. The program also provides respite for parents, many of whom rarely get a chance to relax.
Renowned Jersey Shore surfer, Sam Hammer, who surfed professionally for about 25 years, is deeply involved with A Walk On Water, working with the children, fundraising, and bringing some of his instructors from Hammer Surf School to volunteer as surf therapists.
Parents say the surf therapy program is not only exhilarating for their children, it also helps them to form new friendships and to mature. Some participants graduate to become volunteers themselves, pitching in at the events.
A Walk On Water https://awalkonwater.org/
Hammer Surf School https://hammersurfschool.com/
Sandra Levine Productions https://sandralevine.com/
Watch Still Time for Joy as a video podcast on YouTube @SandraLevineProd
United States
