Non-profit Organization Uses Surf Therapy To Help Struggling Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs’ study reported that an average of 17 veterans died by suicide every day in 2018 — more than 6,000 a year. A veteran-based non-profit organization called “One More Wave” uses surf therapy to lower those figures. Based out of San Diego, the team is comprised of veterans and volunteers. They supply disabled veterans with the proper tools and guidance to catch waves.

“We’ve had quite a few vets come forward and say they tried a bunch of meds from the VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) — some for mental issues, other physical — but since they started surfing, they have been able to come off some or all of those meds,” One More Wave’s CEO Rob Garnett said.

According to The Coast News:

Garnett and the One More Wave team have treated about 470 veterans and aim to help another 120 riders in 2021. But their funding has taken a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their budget is about $200,000 below their operating costs for the year. All of their funds come from private donations and small fundraising events.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has created a task force to investigate the benefits of outdoor recreational therapy for veterans. If proven as an effective form of treatment, organizations like One More Wave will receive funding for their efforts.