Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Arce.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Waves of Impact is dedicated to providing free access to the healing power of the ocean through adaptive surf therapy for children, young adults, veterans, and families facing exceptional challenges. Our mission is to foster confidence, independence, wellness, and meaningful human connection by creating safe, inclusive surf experiences where every participant has the opportunity to accomplish something they may have once believed impossible.
Since 2011, every camp, volunteer, participant, and family has helped shape who we are. What began as a single adaptive surf camp serving ten participants with fifteen volunteers has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit providing free adaptive surf therapy across California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Texas. Today, Waves of Impact has surfed with more than 12,000 youth and over 400 veterans and their families, while remaining committed to the same belief that inspired our first camp: every individual deserves the opportunity to experience the healing, confidence, and joy that the ocean can provide. Galveston remains the foundation and largest camp of our Texas programming.
Although Waves of Impact has grown significantly over the past fifteen years, our purpose has never changed. Every participant deserves to feel included, capable, and celebrated regardless of physical, intellectual, developmental, or emotional challenges. Every volunteer becomes part of something larger than a single day at the beach. Every family leaves knowing their child was seen for their abilities rather than their limitations. Those moments continue to inspire our organization and guide our vision as we build the future of Waves of Impact throughout Texas
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The greatest challenge facing Waves of Impact is the ability to meet increasing demand while maintaining the quality and accessibility of our programs. In Galveston, a camp will reach capacity of 190-200 participants within 5 minutes or less, leaving an average of 200+ families hoping for an opportunity to be called to surf.
We also struggle with the proper adaptive equipment to accommodate our spinal cord injury participants. A standard board does not work for every participant. Veterans with spinal cord injuries need prone boards with chest risers, elbow cups, and adaptive grips. Children with limited trunk control need seating that holds them steady while a volunteer guides the board through the surf. We currently average three to five wheelchair users per camp and do not own equipment built for them. Volunteers make up the difference with their own bodies, allowing an opportunity for our participants to feel the thrill of surfing.
As any non-profit knows, funding can also be a challenge. In order to provide our programs completely free to everyone, we work very hard applying for grants, and meeting local donors and partners.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Our “work” isn’t really work. It’s a blessing to share the power of the ocean and surfing with those who were told it was impossible. Everyone deserves the same opportunity. Our mission and values are built upon inclusion, and we strive to meet as many families as possible through free adaptive surfing.
How do you think about luck?
I’m not sure what this means.
Pricing:
- Free to participants
Contact Info:
- Website: https://WwwWavesofimpact.com
- Instagram: Wavesofimpact
- Facebook: Waves of Impact
- LinkedIn: Waves of Impact
