Kevin and Shannon have brought a true light to the AccesSurf ‘ohana with their positive energy. They joined the family within weeks of being on the island and it was as though they had always been with us. Kevin met the Hawaii Adaptive Surf Team and became such a natural at surfing. Immediately, both Shannon and Kevin generously gave back to our community as volunteers at our events. Kevin also joined our board of directors and has been an extremely valuable resource and guidance to our organization. As we wish them a farewell with their recent move to the mainland, we do so with sadness as we miss them greatly.
1. Tell us a little about yourselves:
Kevin and Shannon Hillery are lawyers who moved to Hawaii from Virginia for Shannon’s military orders. They enjoy all types of outdoor activities including cycling, swimming, all water activities, relaxing on the beach, and generally enjoying beautiful Hawaii.
2. How and when you started with Accessurf.
When they moved to Hawaii at the end of October 2017, Shannon had been researching water sport activities that they could do together. She discovered AccesSurf and they showed up to their first day at the beach after only a week on island. Both Shannon and Kevin knew since that very first day that they wanted to become a part of this organization and community. Shannon immediately began volunteering and Kevin started surfing!
3. What does AccesSurf mean to you?
AccesSurf is all about providing access and removing barriers so that everyone can enjoy beach and ocean activities. In doing so, it also creates a community full of support, friendships, and fun.
4. What is your favorite AccesSurf memory:
Our favorite AccesSurf memory was the 2018 Hawaii Adaptive Surfing Championships, which showcased how the organization brings people together from all across the world and successfully runs world-class events. Kevin’s family was visiting Hawaii for the first time and they got to watch the competition. It was so much fun to show them what AccesSurf is about.
5. Anything you want to say to our AccesSurf community?
We are so thankful that we have become part of this community, and that will always be true even when we’re living away from Hawaii. To the entire AccesSurf ‘Ohana, please keep getting out and taking care of yourselves and each other!
Mahalo Shannon and Kevin for all you have done for us! Best wishes!
