Surf for All Teaches Students of the Healing Powers of the Ocean

Students in Long Beach Public School’s Extended School Year Program enjoyed a day riding the waves while family and teachers cheered them on through Surf for All, a non-profit organization created to help people with special needs through surfing.

Launched by brothers Cliff and Will Skudin and Long Beach resident Jim Mulvaney, the organization has used surfing to help people suffering from cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, visual impairments and blindness, Down syndrome, autism, and diabetes. It has also helped those struggling with economic barriers, the Wounded Warriors and patients diagnosed with cancer.

“We believe the ocean provides a sense of healing and positive experience,” said Cliff. “We will do anything and everything to spread our mission to share our love for the ocean with all.”

Surf for All is just one of the recreational learning activities offered to students in the Extended School Year Program. Besides regular classroom instruction, the program has allowed students to participate in swim sessions at the high school pool, take trips to Rockville Centre Bowl and to play miniature gold at the new City of Long Beach mini golf course on the boardwalk.

“We are pleased to be able to provide our students with many enriching summer activities,” Sabrina Cantore, the district’s executive director of pupil services said. “We are especially grateful to the Skudins, who have been volunteering their time and talent for many years now. It has been a phenomenal experience for our students and their families.”