The programme was established in November 2010 and is based in Friemersheim, a rural community between George and Mossel Bay. Their aim is to bridge the gap left by racial segregation and impoverishment.
"We offer surf training and travelling opportunities to the children. With Surfing and Travelling as a medium, through which we can reach out to the kids, we teach them a multitude of other important life skills such as: communication, social-interaction, respect for the environment, nutrition, literacy, physical fitness, strength, suppleness, respect for one another, and more."
The Surfer Kids play an integral part in the Ross Taylor Benefit Surf Contest, held at Buffels Bay from 9 to 11 August.
"Our kids compete in the development divisions and The Surfer Kids' programme coordinators organise and run the entire development division of the competition. We also usually camp in Buffels Bay for the weekend and this is a huge adventure for all the kids from our programme.
"This year, however, some crucial funding has been withdrawn and as a result, we are desperately seeking funds to cover food and transport costs for The Surfer Kids' attendance at the Ross Taylor Benefit Surf Contest."
The Ross Taylor Benefit Surf Contest is held in memory of local surfer Ross Taylor.
"Ross lost his battle to cancer at the very young age of 29. He lived his life like the seventh wave, putting more enthusiasm and energy into it than most people would in two lifetimes. His last wish to his friends and family was to hold an annual surf contest, where the spirit of 'fun and love through giving' becomes a message to share, live by and learn from."
The event organisers donate all funds raised by the event to Hospice, who took care of Ross during his last days. Through the support Hospice receives from the contest, they are able to provide care for over 500 terminally ill people every year.
The Surfer Kids need your help to get to Buffel's Bay, but they also appeal to the community for donations to cover their transport costs ("Getting these kids to the beach involves a round trip of 70km.") as well as surfboards for the kids.
For more information on The Surfer Kids NON-Profit, visit their website at http://unravelsurftravel.com/outreach/ or their Facebook group, The Surfer Kids NON-Profit.
For donations, contact hermann.unravelsurftravel@gmail.com.
The Surfer Kids NON-Profit is a wonderful initiative to teach local children how to surf. It is headed by Hermann Vivier and his wife Jenya. Photo: Tersia Marais
ARTICLE: TERSIA MARAIS
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