A conversation with the publishers of Shore Local and founders of the nonprofit, Heart of Surfing
This special Coastal Conversation features Cindy and Bob Fertsch, founders and owners of Shore Local Newsmagazine — the publication you are now reading. This year marks the magazine’s 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, they have built it into the leading source for local events, community news and feature stories across Atlantic and Cape May counties.
Below is an excerpt from our conversation:
AS: What inspired you to create Shore Local Newsmagazine?
CF: We envisioned a publication that shines a light on our region — one that highlights the people, places and events that make the Jersey Shore such a special place to both live and visit.
AS: What is the mission behind Shore Local Newsmagazine?
BF: Our mission is simple: to bring people together in a positive way.
AS: You recently celebrated your 10th anniversary. How has Shore Local evolved over the years?
BF: The publication has grown significantly over the past decade. What began as a small group of freelancers has expanded into a large network of writers, editors, photographers and delivery staff, all playing a vital role in producing it each week.
AS: What is your vision for the future?
CF: While we aim to maintain a consistent, familiar format, we are always improving and adapting. We are launching the Locals Choice Awards, where readers can nominate and vote for their favorite businesses, services and experiences. We also just introduced an obituary page so families can honor their loved ones. Expanding our digital reach across multiple platforms is another key focus.
Heart of Surfing is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Cindy and Bob in 2014. Their commitment to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum is deeply personal. The organization was inspired by their son, Jamie, who was on the autism spectrum and loved riding the waves with his dad. In an effort to bring more connection and community into his life, they began inviting other families to join them on the beach. The response was overwhelming, and the effort quickly grew into a formal organization dedicated to providing adaptive surfing, skateboarding and other recreational activities for special needs families.
In 2020, Jamie died suddenly at age 25 from a seizure. His loss profoundly impacted the family, including his two sisters. His legacy, however, continues through Heart of Surfing — the nonprofit he inspired.
Today, the organization offers opportunities for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities to surf and participate in recreational activities throughout the region.
AS: Tell us more about Jamie and how he shaped your perspective.
CF: Jamie was, and continues to be, the inspiration behind Heart of Surfing. He taught us more than we were ever able to teach him — about what really matters, individuality and unconditional love.
AS: What is the mission of Heart of Surfing, and what are your hopes for its future?
BF: Our mission is to create recreational opportunities for families with autism and other related developmental disabilities. We hope to continue expanding and reaching more families. Our hope is that families do not feel isolated like we often did while raising a child on the autism spectrum. Rather, we strive to help them feel connected to a community that understands and is compassionate — meeting their loved one wherever he or she is and offering a safe and positive experience.
AS: How can people get involved?
BF: Volunteers are the heartbeat of Heart of Surfing — they make it all possible. To learn more, participate or volunteer, visit HeartofSurfing.org or call 609-705-5323.
Bob and Cindy’s commitment to inclusion and connection continues to make a meaningful impact throughout the community.
Coastal Conversations highlights individuals making a difference in our region. To suggest someone for a future column, contact ShoreCoastalConversations@gmail.com.
From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.
