The annual adaptive surf clinic held last week, organized by Blind Fitness and supported by the Goleta Lions Club, was a resounding success. The event offered a special opportunity for individuals of all ages who are blind or have low vision to partake in the exhilarating experience of riding waves, under the guidance of skilled surf instructors. With a couple dozen attendees and the aid of numerous volunteers, the clinic was a vibrant, inclusive, and successful event!
Blind Fitness, founded by Brianna Pettit, is dedicated to overcoming the unique challenges faced by individuals with vision impairments in accessing outdoor recreational activities. The organization offers guided outdoor fitness events, such as monthly walks/runs, surfing, cycling, kayaking, and hiking excursions. Blind Fitness emphasizes community involvement and encourages sighted individuals to volunteer and support visually impaired participants during their fitness activities, including the recent surf clinic
The Goleta Lions Club, a social and service organization known for its commitment to programs related to sight, hearing, and children’s causes, showed its support for Blind Fitness by providing lunch at the Santa Claus Beach surf clinic. Beginning at noon, numerous Lions volunteers ensured that all attendees were provided with a meal and enthusiastic support. This event is one example of how Lions show their dedication to events that promote worthy causes. The club actively engages in events and initiatives that benefit the community, and provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations, such as Blind Fitness.
The collaboration between the Goleta Lions Club and Blind Fitness in organizing the surf clinic is an example of the positive and meaningful impact that can be achieved through community partnerships. The surf clinic created a nurturing and inclusive space where individuals with visual impairments flourished, participating in an experience that might have been otherwise inaccessible. This event empowered participants and helped to dispel preconceived notions about what is possible for those with disabilities.
About Goleta Lions Club: The Goleta Lions Club is a service club based in Goleta, California dedicated to improving the lives of individuals in the Goleta and Santa Barbara area. Through volunteer work, community-wide screenings, and various activities, the club strives to make a positive impact and support those in need.
Website: https://www.goletalionsclub.org/
About Blind Fitness: Blind Fitness is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people who are blind or have low vision through sports, recreation, and physical activity while educating the public of their abilities. Blind Fitness provides services to those with vision loss that make fitness and recreational activities more accessible and convenient.
Website: https://blindfitness.org/