On Saturday, August 27th a group of Rotarians and Rotaractors from throughout Southern California got together in Huntington Beach to take over 80 disabled children and adults surfing. Perhaps you've heard of Life Rolls On Foundation which started 20 years ago by Jesse Billauer. Jesse was rising through the ranks to become a professional surfer when he hit a sandbar and suffered a life altering neck injury which left him a quadriplegic. That hasn't stopped Jesse from pursuing his dream or giving others along the way the freedom to enjoy the water.
In fact, Jesse is a 2X World Champion for Team USA Adaptive Surfing started the Life Rolls On Foundation that not only holds over a dozen skate and surf events around the nation but brings some of the top physical & occupational therapists, surfers and friends into the mix. Brett Morey, Founder of Surfers Unite Rotarian Fellowship and Past President of the Rotary Club of La Jolla Golden Triangle has been involved with Life Rolls On for eight years. According to Morey, "There is nothing like watching a hearing-impaired child shake their hands with enjoyment or a person who suffered a stroke or spinal injury light up with joy while riding a wave."
The Life Rolls On 2022 season is coming to a close so don't miss an opportunity to serve as a volunteer at the September 17th event at La Jolla Shores or the October 1st event in Santa Barbara. You can assist with jerseys, registration, handing out food, working the LRO merchandise tent, manning the Surfers Unite booth, assisting with wheelchair transfers, or assisting in shallow, mid or deep water. As you can see there's something for every age and ability and this hands-on service project is a great way to serve others. As Brett put it, "As Rotarians we must constantly create and support fun family-friendly service events to utilize them as a recruitment opportunity for Rotary.
Do you know someone who is a surfer? Invite them to volunteer with you at these LRO events." Sign up to volunteer and encourage your friends and business colleagues to do the same. The September 17th La Jolla Shores event will be headed up by Lifetime Surfers Unite member Ranjan Lahiri. Send a text with the word "LRO" to 858-602-2532 or click here to register today!
Photo: Ann Marie Jones catches some epic waves in 5' to 7' surf at Huntington Beach during a recent Life Rolls On event
Photo: Surfers Unite members from San Diego & Huntington Beach enjoy the fellowship and service in and out of the water
Photo: Join Team Pink today and become a part of the Life Rolls On Ohana