Have you ever wondered where all those papers you fill out at Day at the Beach or our other events go? The sign in forms, waivers, and the like? Be honest, you’re answer is probably no. But trust us – there is LOTS of it, and it certainly does go somewhere. Not all of the opportunities to volunteer with us are soaked in the sun and beach side with our friends. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes – including managing mountains of paperwork and registrations, and it takes a special kind of person to want to do some of the less fun things of running a volunteer driven non-profit. Enter Allie! Who we celebrate as our Volunteer of the Month for April. Now I’m sure most of you are familiar with her smiling face there to greet you at check in or registration at most of our events, but it’s not just at events where Allie really shines, but also behind the scenes. For instance, taking home big binders full of papers with that trademark smile on her face.
With that, we’ll turn it over to Ali so she can share her experience in her own words:
To be selected as Volunteer of the Month is a great privilege and I’m honored.
I’ve been volunteering with AccesSurf for about two years and I’m not 100% sure how I found them, I’m just glad that I did. What I do remember is checking out the website and being so excited I had discovered them just in time for their next event. I showed up not knowing if there would be anything for me to do because I don’t surf. At my first event I learned there are plenty of opportunities both at the events and behind the scenes and I fell in love.
For me AccesSurf embodies both the Aloha spirit and the meaning of ohana, all at the same time! I spend event days surrounded by smiles that go from ear to ear and laughter from both the participants and the volunteers. Nothing compares to energy of event days! Through AccesSurf I’ve met some of the most awesome, amazing, life inspiring, and ocean loving people on the planet and feel so blessed. At every event I’m met new people and made new friends. As a matter of fact, I don’t believe you can attend an AccesSurf event and not make a new friend…it’s just not possible.
Mahalo AccesSurf for the love and the caring spirit you bring to our community and for the wonderful opportunities.
Much love, Allie
