Giving Back

Giving Back

It all starts with you

There aren’t enough words to describe the importance of giving back. – your time, money, old clothes. Volunteering in particular, even just a few hours now and then, strengthens our communities, brings people together, provides us with valuable insight and is even good for our health. Selfishly, the smile from a child or thankful person that shows I’m really making a difference in someone’s life is an amazing feeling. And if we all give back just a little bit, imagine what an awesome place this world would be!

Join me in creating meaningful change in our world by getting involved with one of the organizations below or a charity near and dear to you. I’m honored to be a part of the organizations below. Please go to their websites for more information and check out the Giving Back section of my blog for photos and personal stories.

With Gratitude,
Erika

A Walk On Water (AWOW) provides Surf Therapy to children with special needs or disability. The ocean’s transformative properties empower our participants, who enjoy a much-deserved day of laughter, love, and acceptance alongside their family. Since launching in 2012, AWOW has provided Surf Therapy to over 2,000 children and adults in need. By joining the AWOW Family you are forever changing the lives of families in need. I volunteer at three or more events each year and see my AWOW Family at other surf events every chance I get.

  • Noah returned to preschool the next week and was different. He was calm. He was participating. He was happy.

    Noah's parents

P.S. I Love You (PSILY) is dedicated to nurturing at-risk youth through social and emotional learning programs, inspirational enrichment and community outreach events. Our programs teach essential skills that influence the development of compassion, good choices, positive attitudes and confident minds, thereby reducing the chances of these children growing up depressed, violent, turning to gangs for support, dropping out of school, or using drugs to cope. I sit on the Board and have volunteered at Day at the Beach every year since 2006.

  • I’ve realized that kids can’t grow as individuals until they learn about themselves. You guys provide the tools. It’s one of a kind! Thanks again!

    Teacher at Washington Elementary