Veteran Surf Alliance creates fellowship and community among veterans through surfing, easing the transition between military service and civilian living. We are a peer-led community that connects veterans, active duty, and first responders, all of whom share similar experiences. The fellowship established through formal and informal events, community service, wellness retreats and other activities forges new and strengthens existing bonds, renews purpose and meaning, and increases healing.
Many of our veterans live by the credo “Surfing Saves Lives.” Some lack surfboards, preventing them from accessing this life-affirming activity. With your support, we are establishing a fund to reduce the barriers to surfboard ownership.
With 140+ formal and informal events annually, we connect veterans to community organization, promote health and wellness, and abide by a Code of Conduct that articulates our expectations. We serve the community with beach cleanups, storm cleanups, and assist other organizations and those with various needs, individually or as a group.
We collaborate with UC Santa Cruz Veteran Resource Center, Cabrillo College Veteran Information Center, VFW Post 7263 Tre Pueblos Capitola, Santa Cruz Board Rider Club, Vets4Vets Santa Cruz, United Veteran Council, and more. There is a ripple effect as we become better spouses, parents, friends, colleagues and neighbors.
The VSA has become my community and my reason for continuing to exist.
Arturo Ayala, Desert Storm Veteran
