TESTIMONIALS

“Just wanted to add my thanks and massive appreciation to everyone that had a hand in organising Sunday... It was our first time and we really didn't know what to expect... What a fantastic group of individuals my son loved it and I had a lovely day meeting such great people.”

— Mary, RAW Participant's parent

“Thank you to the absolutely fantastic RAW crew. My younger son Adam had a blast! The whole event exceeded my wildest expectations -- I had no idea they'd go so far offshore to surf, and that there was kayaking & boogieboarding as well. Everyone was awesome, and I feel profoundly grateful for the opportunity. Thank you! All the best.”

— Mary, RAW Participant's parent

“Just wanted to add to the thanks to all the folks at Ride-A-Wave!! Amazing volunteers made for an amazing day! My son was really nervous about going surfing, but they took their time and let him get really comfortable before taking him out. He was so proud of himself! Now he has something really terrific for "sharing" at school -- a million thanks for an amazing day!”

— Kristin, RAW Participant's parent

“Thanks for organizing the surf day. My son was very hesitant in surfing and eventually decided to try it and had a great time. The RAW team was amazing and my son has been talking every day about Teresa (his beach buddy) and Tyler (his surfing instructor).”

— Anonymous, RAW Participant's parent

“This was our first time with RAW. I was so impressed by the organization, calmness and patience from the volunteers. My son struggled quite a bit and was very anxious about surfing. His volunteer "John" was truly amazing and understanding with my son. Even though my son didn't surf, he experienced boogie boarding and having someone stick with him through his challenges. I woke up the next day and thought to myself that most of the time I have to stop and ask myself if my son can participate in a particular activity and if he will be successful. RAW provided an experience made for him which was such a relief, change of pace and great experience. Thank you so much.”

— Stephanie, RAW Participant's parent

“Thank you for the superb leadership to make this surf camp super great fun, and possible!

This is also the first surf camp for my 13 yo son, Darin. We felt very relaxed once his beach buddy glued onto him by firmly and gently held his hand. He looks like a very solid, calm, and reliable buddy to prevent my son from getting into trouble.

The kayak, boogie board, and surf teams are unbelievable! They are very calm, patient, and extremely friendly. They seemed to have the mission of making the kids feel comfortable, and eased them into attempting all activities, giving them the joy that they sorely missed. Darin had fear tummy-down on the boogie board. But Michael thought quickly and solved the problem by switching him to a bigger board! From that point on, he was able to ride it many times!

I can't thank you all enough for the great joy you provided my son and our family! We felt like we were in utopia planet for a day, where nobody darts weird look our way, every one is friendly and accepts Darin as is! This is hard to come by... Thank you.”

— Ines, RAW Participant's parent

“You all have given these kids and their parents, some of them for the first time, not only huge smiles, but hope and confidence that they can in fact try and succeed at new experiences.

"You treated these children with dignity and respect, and for the day they were celebrated for their greatness! This experience in so many ways has changed our lives. Though I can't possibly ever say enough, thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

— Balance Foundation

“All of your efforts touched the lives of our kids in ways that we never could have imagined."

"Mikey came to the camp frightened and insecure� His self-confidence increased tremendously after his day on the beach with RAW. He has decided that he can be a friend to others and that he is not weird and different."

"Justin has returned to the beach upon his insistence. He now owns a wetsuit and wishes to learn to boogie board. Most importantly you taught him how to take risks!"

"Franci has been in special education since day one, and this was one of her first experiences whereby she was treated like a normal kid."

"Brett has a very rate syndrome. He has only slept one hour a night since birth. After his day on the beach with RAW and for three days following he slept for 10-11 hours nightly. This is truly a miracle!"

"We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your time and energy.”

— Pediatric Therapy Center

“I would like to thank you for a truly spectacular day on the beach. The generosity and patience of you and your crew provided all with a safe and fun day filled with many new experiences."

"Kelly had the time of her life. She kept talking the whole way home about how exciting it was to ride the boogie boards."

"These surfers help everyone look past the burn. Now, you get to be just a child having a wonderful experience."

"Thank you for giving the children of the AARFB life long memories.”

— Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation