Surfers around the world are intimately familiar with the feeling of “zen” they experience after a session on the water. Scientists have taken note, studying the release of adrenaline, dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin in surfers and using this knowledge to treat afflictions ranging from seasonal affective disorder to schizophrenia.
Since 2014, City Surf Project has brought the same sense of physical and psychological well-being to a new population—underrepresented youth in the San Francisco Bay Area. In one study, over three-quarters of children in high-violence urban areas reported coming into contact with community violence, which can lead to depression and even post-traumatic stress disorder.
On the water, however, these kids escape the challenges in their neighborhoods. City Surf Project uses the sport of surfing to expand their worldview and teach valuable life skills ranging from nutrition essentials to surfing fundamentals, CPR to lifeguard training. Perhaps most importantly, City Surf Project instructors teach their students the power of perseverance in learning and mastering a new sport.
In preparation for this year’s summer surfing and ocean safety classes, City Surf Project aims to raise $100,000 to pay the tuition for kids from families in need. Join GoPro in supporting City Surf Project’s efforts to bring the beach to inner-city kids this summer.