09/18/2026
This past Sunday I had the opportunity to volunteer again at Surfers Healing NJ/Autism Beach Bash in Belmar. To say it’s a rewarding experience doesn’t do the event justice. I met some great people and got reacquainted with others I haven’t seen since last year or even longer. While the weather is not typically ideal (a lot of rain and cloudy skies), the sun broke out after lunch and it turned out to be an awesome afternoon. Great waves for these kids and their healers. One thing I’ve noticed in my two trips to Belmar is that regardless of the weather, the spirit and enthusiasm these boys and girls have is unparalleled. Hesitation and resistance are rare with this group. Many want to stand and surf on their own. Seeing the confidence these kids have gives you all the feels and is a testament to the foundation. Unfortunately I didn’t take any photos this year so I had to pull from the event’s photogs and others I follow. As if any Surfers Healing camp isn’t a highlight in and of itself, I got to experience a new first…..and possibly the highlight of highlights this year: A nonverbal teen (1st photo) who I had helped into the water kissed my hand after her surf sesh was over. This was her way of thanking me, or so I believe. I remembered her from last year but didn’t recall a reaction one way or the other. I remember wondering whether she even enjoyed the event. It’s so hard to tell sometimes with nonverbal kids/young adults especially when you don’t know their tendencies, sounds and body language in context. The kiss to my hand though said it all. That’s a memory I’ll never forget. I wish I had the luxury of time to volunteer at every camp but for now I’ll take OCMD and Belmar, NJ 😊🏄🏻♂️🌊
