Raising funds for inclusive surfing in Long Beach

Surf for All, a Long Beach-based non-profit that organizes surf outings and other events for children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities — as well as war veterans and disadvantaged youth — held its annual fundraiser on July 2 at Bright Eye Beer Co.

The group got started in 2002 with a surf program for developmentally disabled teenagers only. Since then, they have expanded to cover a broader spectrum of disabilities — autism, cerebral palsy, visual impairment and much more. Aside from their own planned outings, they work with the Long Beach school district and provide free weekly lessons for students during a special education program that takes place during the summer months.

Surfing isn’t all they do, though. Teens have had numerous opportunities to take trips and even play with horses. They have partnered with HorseAbility, an Old Westbury-based organization that offers therapeutic sessions with horses, to bring them to the sand. On such occasions, the participants can alternate between surfing and having the chance to play with two miniature horses.

The group also holds fundraisers at which they recognize community members for all sorts of work. This year, Harvey Weisenberg, Gina D’Andraia and Grace Tolan were honored.