Each Friday, the another jennifer blog shares stories of those who incorporate philanthropy into their everyday lives – personally and professionally – in a creative and unique way. If you have a story you’d like to share, please contact Jennifer. You can view past posts from the series here.
The following article is a guest post from Krystal at Life – Where’s the Handbook.
Back in May of this year I had the opportunity to volunteer at a Surfers for Autism (SFA) event in Key West. This was the first event I ever attended and wanted to check it out before I registered my children to participate.
The purpose of the day was to allow children with autism the ability to get on a surf board and experience the love of surfing and being on the water. They were there to let families be families and raise community awareness about autism.
To say that I was moved beyond words is putting it mildly.
The day of the event we had to modify the technique because in the Keys there really aren’t any waves to surf on so the idea to have them Paddleboard was introduced. Volunteers walked into the ocean and created a large circle. The children were then placed on paddle boards and pushed along through the circle – sort of like a conveyor belt – from volunteer to volunteer.
Source: M. Jackowski with Surfers for Autism
The children were laughing and excited. They were engaging with the world around them – autism was nowhere in sight!
They were giving hi-fives and “shakas” to the volunteers.
I was given the pleasure to paddle with a child; he was no more than 4 years old. He was non-verbal. At first he just sat on the board and didn’t move, he looked scared and nervous.
I asked him if he wanted to try standing up – he nodded yes and he did it! He held my hand of course but he did it! He was all smiles!
I asked if he wanted to go around again – he nodded yes – we did this about 3 more times and he was standing up the whole time!
When the small waves made him wobbly, he held tight onto my finger and found his balance. He would look at me and smile. I was connected to this kid. He reminded me of my son.
As we approached the shore, I saw his mom and she had tears in her eyes. Happy tears.
I also saw one of the veteran surf instructors work with another child to get him to stand up on his board. The child was nervous but he never gave up. All the volunteers were cheering him on. When he finally stood up, he was all smiles and laughter. We all cheered for him and clapped for his progress. I cried.
Source: Surfers for Autism, Facebook Photo Album SFA Key West 2013 #2
This event brought hugs and smiles and even first words for some children. Parents, volunteers, and staff were in happy tears because of what they were experiencing.
I can’t wait to get my children to participate next year because SFA has become a big part of my life. I have made some great friends and have fallen in love with the miracles and happiness that they bring to our children.
Krystal is a mom of 6 children on the autism spectrum. She blogs about parenting, autism awareness, and life in general at Life-Where’s the Handbook? Her passion is raising awareness about autism and volunteering in organizations that support inclusion and autism awareness. She is continuing her efforts in support of SFA by running in a 5k race to raise funds for the organization in January 2014.
Oh, wow. How powerful and moving. I am typing through tears here. What a fantastic group. –Lisa
The Dose of Reality recently posted..Pinterest Nightmare #345: The Nubrella
Lisa, they totally are!! I am humbled by all that they do for children like mine – all the volunteers were surprised at everything that they were witnessing and feeling there.
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
This is so wonderful! What an amazing group! I love reading your Philanthropy Fridays — they are always so uplifting!
Michelle recently posted..Your Favorite Posts {Ladies Only Blog Share}
They totally are amazing – it is a real family environment. Once you get started with them, you’re hooked!
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
Krystal, I remember reading about this event on your blog back in May and I’m so glad that you got to share your experience with Jennifer today. That this event brought first words to some of those children moves me to tears.
Ilene recently posted..Designing Home
I’m glad to have shared it here with Jennifer and all of you! These events are hosted all over Florida and they have one event in Georgia, Puerto Rico, and even Australia to reach so many families and get these kids in the water and just be kids!
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
Thank you so much for sharing this! We had signed my son up two years ago but had to cancel because of a conflict. Two friends of ours went that year and said it was the best experience ever. One of the best organizations in the country and I am so glad you shared your experience here. Next year I hope to get on the list again!
Alysia recently posted..Free To Be You And Me (reprise)
Alysia – I’m so sorry that you missed out but there is definitely not a shortage of opportunities. I hope that you can attend next season and see for yourself and your son how just perfect a day they can have. I know you’ll be back for more because I surely will!
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
I like this concept….it prompts unconditional giving. Thanks for sharing, Jennifer!
Michelle Liew recently posted..Unusual architecture amid natural beauty
Unconditional giving is very true! People from all around come to experience the events and are shocked at how in just one brief moment, these children can open up to the world around them and just be kids. They in turn then pass the joy and love with others and raise awareness about autism and community acceptance.
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
This is amazing. I have great admiration for those who find ways to share their passion in way that really transform someone else’s life. Thanks, Jennifer for shining a light on so many great causes!
Mo at Mocadeaux recently posted..Girls’ Night In
It was truly transforming – the organization will always be a dear part of my life. I can’t wait to participate again!
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
What a great experience! It must have been so amazing to see that little guy so happy – and his Mom as well:)
leah davidson recently posted..My White Picket Fence and Garden
It was amazing! He just kept trying and trying – he never gave up! I still keep in touch with his mom via Facebook. (BTW – the little boy in the bottom picture is the little one I was writing about)
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
This is so beautiful and the story about the four-year-old brought tears to my eyes. The thought of those happy tears his mom had in her eyes!
Tamara recently posted..Ladies Only Blog Share Link Party: All Our Favorite Things.
That little boy is just one of the many that touched my heart that day. I can’t wait to participate in more events as a parent and as a volunteer! (BTW – the little boy in the bottom picture is the little one I was writing about)
Krystal recently posted..For the Love of Surfing and Autism
I love how we volunteer and think, “I’m going to help someone,” and we do. But what we get out of it … that’s what changes us and makes us want to sign up for the next thing. What an incredible cycle, and I’m glad to see you in on it!
Jennifer’s got the best thing going on Fridays …
Eli@coachdaddy recently posted..5 for Friday: Go Ask Daddy About Battery Temperature, Scorching Pitches and Boating Safety
It’s truly wonderful how the smallest things we do actually help out in abundance and then impact us so deeply!!
Krystal recently posted..Turning it Around
What a cool event. I love that you do this series.
Blond Duck recently posted..Friday Five
It was a truly great event! I recommend it for anyone who can to volunteer – it is such a rewarding experience.
Krystal recently posted..Turning it Around
A great group! I love to hear when people can give back. It always feels great to help another person. Great series!
Tess recently posted..Windex Touch-Up Cleaner
Definitely a great group! They have become more than just an organization, they are family. We are all spread out across the state but we all come together for SFA.
Krystal recently posted..Turning it Around
This is awesome! Looks like everyone had a good time.
MomChalant recently posted..I Got My First Dining Room Table
They did! Everyone had a great time!! I can’t wait for more!
Krystal recently posted..Turning it Around