From the Editor
It was a great honor to stand among fourteen powerful women this week as Raymond Tyler celebrated each of us with a “Women in Leadership” award. The women that stood beside me have each taken an active role in bettering their respective communities.
These ladies challenge gender and racial stereotypes and work toward a brighter future for all. Some of the award recipients included a savings expert who coaches people out of financial despair, the founding Executive Director of the Atlantic City Arts Foundation, and a psychiatrist committed to breaking mental health stigmas in the African American community.
As I sat back and cheered for each leader as she accepted her award, I wondered to myself, “How did I end up here?”
My journey in public service began in 2014 when a surfing organization came to Ocean County from California for a day of surfing with children with autism. The event filled up almost instantly and something sparked within me that day.
I was reminded of my son, Jamie. From the time he was young, Bob would take him out in the ocean on a surfboard so he could enjoy the waves. I still tear up when I think about his giggle and ear-to-ear smile as he gently crashed to the shore. After the 2014 one-day event, I began to formulate a plan that would ultimately become our non-profit organization, Heart of Surfing.
Heart of Surfing pairs people with autism (and other developmental disabilities) with volunteers that teach them how to surf and experience the ocean in a safe and supportive environment. Kids and adults alike love the rush of the water, the encouragement of their surf guide, and the trophy we hand them after every season.
We’ve surfed thousands of people from across South Jersey and have partnered with almost every beach town from Brigantine to Cape May. We’ve had therapy dogs on surfboards, taught our friends with autism how to skateboard or scooter, and hosted events ranging from ice skating to drum circles.
“Autism tends to bring a lot of serious issues to consider,” I said when I accepted my award. “Heart of Surfing offers an opportunity to try something fun, and experience the ocean in a supportive and positive atmosphere.”
One idea followed by heart-led work, a relentless drive, and a commitment to my passion is what led me to that stage this week. I assume that’s how every female award recipient felt. One idea, one decision, one step in each of our respective lives brought us together as recognized leaders in the community. In every issue of Shore Local, we highlight incredible community members who are making a difference, like Heartland Hero recipient Cheryl Caliri and her daughter Hilary Van Horn of Mays Landing (Founders of Earth Angels for Dementia on page 52) and Pasquale Cassesse (a Navy lieutenant in the Black Sea near Ukraine – page 55).
Whatever your little idea might be, go after it. Take the first steps. Make one decision followed by another. Your dreams are waiting for you to breathe life into them. You never know how much power resides within you to inspire change and bring out the good in a community. The real prize comes in the form of human connections and the smiles on the faces of the participants. The heroes are the volunteers that make it all possible.
April is Autism Awareness month. Look for opportunities to support those living with autism in our community. A kind smile, a gentle understanding, and thoughtful words are all beautiful ways to show that you care.
Peace & Love,
Cindy
