Waves of Life exists to give children hope, healing, and purpose through the ocean. We take disadvantaged youth — from survivors of sex trafficking in Hawai‘i to orphans in Nazaré, Portugal — and empower them through the simple, life-changing act of surfing paired with mentorship. For these kids, the waves become a safe space, a source of strength, and something to look forward to for the rest of their lives. Every donation goes directly to keeping these programs alive and reaching more children who need this the most.
Our Mission
To provide surf therapy mentorship for at-risk and underprivileged youth to allow them the opportunity to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually.
(When you click “Donate,” you’ll be redirected to Vital Living’s PayPal or Venmo. Rest assured, your contribution is designated specifically for Waves of Life and will directly support our youth surf therapy programs. *Details below about Waves of Life and Vital Living collaboration)
How it Started
Waves of Life was born from family, community, and a shared belief that every child deserves the chance to connect with nature. We know — and research confirms — that time in nature is profoundly healing: it builds resilience, awakens potential, and helps young people thrive beyond adversity. Once this bond is formed, it lasts a lifetime — nurturing healthier bodies, minds, and spirits while inspiring a deep love for the Earth and a commitment to care for it as future stewards.
Waves of Life: Surf Therapy. Youth participating in the program meet with mentors weekly:
Engage in team building activities
Develop coping tools and mental health strategies
Participate in surf therapy
Over time, we have witnessed incredible transformations attributed to the healing power of Nature through surfing, allowing participants to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Areas We Serve
Waves of Life began and continues with roots in Nazare, Portugal, and has grown into a dual program on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii.
It is an honor and a privilege to work with like-minded individuals and organizations in support of Waves of Life and surf therapy opportunities for under-served children and youth.
In 2018 Waves of Life held its inaugural surf therapy camp consisting of foster youth in Nazare, Portugal. Today, over 50 foster youth have participated in our weekly surf therapy program.
Waves of Life is excited to partner with Pearl Haven in Oahu, Hawaii. Pearl Haven is a unique treatment facility providing residential therapeutic care to youth age 11-17 who have complex trauma as a result of sexual exploitation or trafficking.
Get Involved
About Your Donation
Waves of Life is a proud initiative under the nonprofit umbrella of Vital Living, a 501(c)(3) organization committed to holistic healing and community well-being.
To ensure your gift is tax-deductible and properly managed, all donations are securely processed through Vital Living—the umbrella program through which we run Waves of Life.
When you click “Donate,” you’ll be redirected to Vital Living’s PayPal or Venmo. Rest assured, your contribution is designated specifically for Waves of Life and will directly support our youth surf therapy programs.
Waves of Life is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, with 100% of donations directly funding our programs. We humbly ask you to consider making a donation of any size, big or small, to get us off the ground running.
With your support, Waves of Life will be able to expand its outreach in making a positive impact on generations to come and to protect Mother Earth. Donations can be made via the link below (PayPal). Thank you for your support!
Waves of Life
68 645 Farrington Hwy, Waialu HI | 501(c)(3) Tax ID 85-16145