6th Annual Camp Hana Hou
SANTA BARBARA, CA (July 17th 2017) This past Saturday the Surf Happens Foundation sponsored the 6th annual Camp Hana Hou, a free surfing camp for kids out-living cancer and their families. This year saw 50 participants having fun catching their first waves. “This camp is amazing for these families who have been through the toughest of challenges, to give them a happy and safe place to feel free is incredibly important, ” says Cottage Hospital social worker Sebastian Lebeau.
The healing powers of the ocean are unprecedented, and through Hana Hou we aim to facilitate a healthy and long lasting relationship with the ocean. The camp encourages a safe space to overcome fears, share fellowship, and have fun. Surfing is the primary activity, but we also play team building beach games and other water activities.
The beach day also included an educational ocean stewardship presentation and beach cleanup. Each participant took the HIGH5 pledge to “pick up 5 pieces of trash every time they visit the beach”, learning about reducing their own waste and keeping our oceans clean. Healthy lunches and snacks were served and enjoyed by all.
Each participant is offered a scholarship to attend a full-week surfing camp if they are inspired to explore the sport of surfing. The kids are encouraged to pursue their passions no matter what obstacles life presents them.