MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Since surfer William Leadbetter made Mossel Bay his new home in August last year, several children, who otherwise would hardly have had the chance of enjoying the ocean on a surfboard, have experienced otherwise.
Leadbetter started a volunteer organisation, Walking on Waves in Cape Town, which focuses on sharing the joy of the ocean with those that have never experienced the waves on a surfboard.
In Cape Town, he worked closely with Iris House children's hospice, but hosted several surfing events for children with disabilities and other special needs in Mossel Bay since June 2016 before relocating here.
With the ongoing support of the NSRI and local private emergency services, By Grace EMS, Leadbetter recently started reaching out to a new group of people who could certainly do with some fun in the surf.
"Working with kids in Muizenberg, Cape Town, it often struck my how much fun the mom's had watching their children enjoy a surfing experience. Living in Mossel Bay, I have come to realize how many single parent households there are.
William Leadbetter (kneeling left) and his band of volunteers at Dias Beach this season.
"Offering a surfing experience, gives these parents the opportunity to bond with their kids in a healthy, natural way, which in many cases, would not have been possible otherwise."
As the festive season ended, Leadbetter and a band of keen volunteers did just this. For about two hours, two single moms and their sons had a simply great time at Dias Beach.
"What was particularly heartwarming was the way that the youngsters at the NSRI participated in giving back to the community."
Leadbetter, who now works full time at a local back packers, says that offering surfing experiences like this on an ongoing basis is his aim.
His mission has even gotten visitors to the back packers involved in some way or another.
On 10 February, Leadbetter will once again offer a surfing experience to local children with particular handicaps.
To become involved with Walking on Waves' projects, contact William Leadbetter (082 586 8723) or email him at william.walkingonwaves@gmail.com.
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