Fourteen teens with the Santa Barbara Police Activities League (PAL) spent a recent sunny day learning to surf with the MeWater Foundation.

“Our PAL participants had an amazingly fun day learning to surf,” said Judie Lugo, executive director of PAL. “It was such a great atmosphere and everyone felt comfortable trying something new and challenging with the support of awesome volunteers.

“The laughter and excitement was a great way to kick off the school year. They are already asking to go surfing again soon.”

Cmdr. Charles Katsapis at Hollister Ranch beach with young surfers David, Roman and Irvin. They are all wearing wetsuits and one young man is smiling broadly as he gives a thumbs-up sign.
Cmdr. Charles Katsapis at Hollister Ranch beach with young surfers David, Roman and Irvin. Credit: Courtesy photo

The day was hosted by Lauren and Keith Malloy at Hollister Ranch in Gaviota. Food was provided for all participants, and each teen received a Patagonia backpack to take home with them. Volunteers from the Santa Barbara Police Department and the MeWater Foundation assisted the participants.

Based in the Bay Area, the MeWater Foundation uses nature to educate, inspire and empower underserved youth. The group works to address trauma and stress in young people from backgrounds of poverty and violence, and provide them a different way of relating to the world and communities where they live in.

For more, visit www.mewaterfoundation.org.

The Santa Barbara PAL strives to build the bridge between cops, kids, and the community through mentorship, leadership, and academic enrichment programs. PAL is at the Twelve35 Teen Center in Santa Barbara.

For more, visit www.sbpal.org.