STUART, Fla. (BVM) — Surfers for Autism recently launched a new chapter on the Treasure Coast, this time expanding from Martin County into St. Lucie County. To help launch the good cause elsewhere, the St. Lucie County Fire Department sent out volunteer units to hit the water and show their support. 

Based in Stuart, the organization’s goal is to offer water sport opportunities to both children and adults who may not otherwise find them. These athletes with autism and other related developmental delays and disabilities are able to participate in surfing events while meeting new people and experiencing the world’s natural wonders. 

All donations and merchandise sales goes right back into the non-profit so that it can supply top-of-the-line equipment to its participants, and the leftover money is what makes all the events completely free of charge. Since 2007, the organization has maxed out almost every event’s limits of 200 participants and 350 volunteers, making it a large success.

As they continue to open new chapters and find kind-hearted volunteers all along the Treasure Coast, more people will get to experience the healing powers of the ocean.