Ways our Programs can be Kept Afloat
Photo taken from our 8-Week Women’s Program on the Gold Coast
Words: Lily Jacobsen
Seas and greetings! From us to you, we would like to thank you for ongoing support to help fund our surf therapy programs. These programs ignite conversations about mental health in a calm and serene space. What could be better than hanging by the beach?
Using not only the ocean as a tool to become mindful and at peace, but also the waves. When surfing, serotonin and endorphins are released, along with the activation of certain brainwaves. Our programs inspire that euphoria and burst of energy that inspire you to see the bigger picture.
Our clinically-proven surf therapy programs are conducted in small groups of people with the same purpose. Attending these programs not only improves your connection with yourself but also the people around you. Who knows who you might help. You may not even be aware of it. Plus, all of our programs are free - and always will be.
So, Who Funds These Programs?
Our donors and fundraisers are what keep these programs afloat. Even from the smallest items, such as donating money for sunscreen can help. Our facilitators, our surfing masters or ‘unicorns’ as we call them, not only teach you skills, but facilitate these important conversations about mental health. The money you raise or donate to WOW also keeps them in a job!
Image: @sobocollective
Fun Runs such as City2Surf
On the 13th of August, you have the opportunity to run and raise money for WOW. City2Surf is a fundraiser for attendants to run (or have a light jog) for mental health. Don’t be sea-prised, this event will provide training runs! The event will be held in Sydney, with a 14km course from the CBD to Bondi beach.
Our aim is to raise $5000. This amount is enough to support ten people to complete an eight-week surf therapy program. By fundraising for WOW, you open more opportunities for people in need of support to attend our surf therapy programs. We believe mental health is not just about crisis management but finding healthy outlets for support. Your support helps to contribute to positive mental health for others who face challenges.
You can register here.
Fundraisers such as Ducktober
In October 2023 our Ducktober fundraiser will quack off again! If you’re not familiar with our Ducktober fundraiser, we have already raised over $100K so far! This is all in support of our surf therapy programs that spark those important conversations about mental health. For 20 days in October, we ask you to test yourself and take that cold water plunge. Our programs run, even in winter. Why not challenge yourself the same way our facilitators do?
The benefits of cold water therapy include:
- Enhanced circulation
- Increased resilience
- Slowing your heart rate and breathing from increased anxiety
- Enhanced immune system and metabolism
- Lowering symptoms of depression and anxiety
Make sure you take your cold plunge safely! Have a ten-minute ice bath, colder showers, or go have a surf. In cold water of course. Like ducks, they are calm above the surface but struggling below. This is our metaphor for mental health and this cold water challenge.
Keep an eye on our socials for all the details this year. It’s time to give a duck about mental health. We hope this challenge leaves you feeling sand-tastic!
More Ways You Can Help
On our website, you can donate anything from money to surfing items. Anything helps! If you wish to challenge yourself, start your own fundraiser, we’ll support you!
To celebrate your birthday and to say shell yeah for another year, start a birthday Facebook fundraiser. Alternatively, you can volunteer for WOW, either on our team or as a surf mentor.
Check out the link here to start fundraising today or check out what others have done.
Or make a one-off donation here today.
We would like to say thank you to anyone who has supported us. Our foundation would not be able to continue without you. Every cent will count towards better mental health for all.
Donate to WOW or find out more about where the money goes here.