Letter from the editor
Everyone wants to feel like they belong. It’s one of our most basic human needs. Yet for many families raising children or caring for adults with autism and other developmental disabilities, finding places where they are fully accepted isn’t always easy. Too often, everyday activities come with uncertainty, anxiety or the fear of being misunderstood. Communities have the power to change that.
When people choose inclusion over limitation, compassion over convenience and encouragement over judgment, extraordinary things happen.
When my husband, Bob, and I founded Heart of Surfing in 2014, our dream was simple: to give children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience the freedom, confidence and joy of riding a wave. We understood the challenges many families with special needs loved ones face because our son, Jamie, was on the autism spectrum.
Like so many parents, we spent years searching for places where he could simply belong. Inspired by Jamie’s love of the ocean, what began as a small adaptive surfing program has grown into a community built on acceptance, encouragement and hope.
Every weekend throughout the summer, participants, volunteers, instructors, lifeguards and families come together to create something truly special. It isn’t just about surfing. It’s about building confidence, creating friendships and celebrating every milestone — whether it’s climbing onto a board for the first time, standing up on a wave or simply feeling comfortable enough to step into the ocean.
The smiles tell the story better than words ever could.
Last Saturday, I was overwhelmed by the incredible outpouring of support from the communities of Margate and Longport. Members of the Margate City Fire Department, Longport Volunteer Fire Department, Margate Beach Patrol and Longport Beach Patrol were there from the moment we arrived, ready to help in any way they could. Students and staff from Mainland Regional High School’s Unified Sports and Surf Team unloaded equipment, welcomed participants and worked side by side with our volunteers throughout the day. Families who often face the challenge of transporting beach equipment and loved ones with special needs across the sand were given golf cart rides directly to our registration area, making the beach more accessible for everyone.
Then came another surprise. Fudgy Wudgy Cold Brew treated participants, volunteers and families to complimentary cold brew and water ice. Police officers, city officials and the mayor also stopped by to show their support. No one could ever ask for a more caring and compassionate community!
This weekend, our journey continues. On Saturday, Heart of Surfing heads to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, where employees will once again volunteer alongside our team and support our mission. The Eagles Autism Foundation will join us with Swoop and Eagles Cheerleaders to help kick off the day. Next weekend, we’ll team up with the Sea Isle City and North Wildwood Beach Patrol for more adaptive surfing events.
None of this would be possible without our volunteers. Beach patrol members, surfing instructors, students, local businesses and sponsors generously give their time, energy and compassion so every participant can enjoy a safe, successful day on the water.
Jamie passed away in 2020, but his spirit remains a part of every event we host. Every wave ridden with confidence, every high-five shared on the beach and every family that leaves smiling carries his legacy forward.
People often ask what makes Heart of Surfing so special.
It isn’t the surfboards.
It isn’t the waves.
It’s the people.
The volunteers who show up. The families who place their trust in us. The instructors, beach patrol members and sponsors who never hesitate to lend a hand. And most of all, the participants, whose courage and determination inspire every person fortunate enough to share the beach with them.
They remind us that the greatest waves aren’t measured in feet.
They’re measured in kindness, compassion and hope.
Because in the end, the greatest waves are made by people.
Peace & Love, Cindy
