The Surf Bus Foundation stands as a beacon of hope for underprivileged children in Los Angeles, offering them the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the ocean. Established as an extension of Surf Academy, a premier surf school founded by Mary Setterholm, the foundation’s mission is to provide youth from economically challenged backgrounds with a chance to connect with nature through surfing. This unique initiative has grown significantly since its inception, changing the lives of thousands of children.
The foundation’s roots trace back to a tragic event in 1999, when a 12-year-old girl, Theresa Robertson, lost her life in a drowning accident off the coast of Manhattan Beach. Setterholm, who was teaching surfing nearby at the time, was deeply affected by the incident. She resolved to educate young people on ocean safety and share the joy of surfing. This passion led to the creation of Surf Academy, which later blossomed into the Surf Bus Foundation in 2003.
Since its launch, the Surf Bus Foundation has made it its mission to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the healing power of the ocean. The foundation operates a fleet of buses that travel to neighborhoods across Los Angeles County, picking up children from areas like Echo Park and MacArthur Park, and transporting them to various beaches. The program runs during the summer months, offering twice-weekly beach trips where children can learn to surf and gain an understanding of ocean safety.
What makes the Surf Bus Foundation so impactful is its emphasis on inclusivity and community. The ocean, as the foundation believes, does not discriminate—everyone is welcome to experience its beauty and challenges. Surfing not only offers physical activity but also helps children build self-confidence, overcome fears, and develop a deeper connection with nature.
The Role of Jon Farzam
A key supporter of the Surf Bus Foundation is Jon Farzam, co-owner of The Shore Hotel in Santa Monica. Farzam, a recognized community leader and philanthropist, became involved with the foundation as part of his ongoing efforts to enrich the lives of those in his neighborhood. His family’s business, The Shore Hotel, has long been committed to sustainability and social responsibility, and Farzam’s partnership with the Surf Bus Foundation exemplifies these values.
Farzam’s contribution to the foundation is multifaceted. The Shore Hotel provides complimentary stays for children participating in the program, many of whom have never seen the Pacific Ocean despite living so close to it. This collaboration ensures that even the most underprivileged children can experience the beauty of the ocean, while also offering them a safe and welcoming place to rest after a day spent in the sun and surf.
Farzam’s involvement extends beyond offering hotel accommodations. As someone who values education and community involvement, he also sees the Surf Bus Foundation as an opportunity to inspire future generations. By partnering with the organization, Farzam helps provide children with experiences that could influence their life paths, instilling in them a sense of confidence and respect for the environment.
Surf Bus Foundation Today
The Surf Bus Foundation continues to thrive, serving over 3,000 children a week during the summer. The buses travel to multiple beach sites, including Huntington Beach, Dockweiler Beach, and Santa Monica, ensuring that children from all over Los Angeles County have the chance to participate. As of 2023, the foundation serves 33% of zip codes across the county, encompassing over 100 communities.
The program has earned praise from community leaders, church organizations, and schools for its ability to bring children together, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds. Surfing, as the foundation highlights, is more than just a sport—it’s a way to bring people together, foster community, and create lasting memories.
In a city as diverse and sprawling as Los Angeles, initiatives like the Surf Bus Foundation are essential. With the support of people like Jon Farzam and organizations committed to giving back, the foundation will continue to offer life-changing experiences for children in need, ensuring that the ocean remains a place of healing, growth, and joy for everyone.