2021 Stories of Stoke: Board President: Craig Jenkins
Introducing Craig Jenkins: Board President
My name is Craig and I love everything about the outdoors. It’s where I feel the most free and grounded. Most of my life has been dedicated to the ocean and I usually spend my days surfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and spearfishing. Living in California does not just limit you to the ocean. I’ve spent many years snowboarding around the country chasing the feeling and excitement of the perfect powder day. When the snow is not falling you can also find me dirt biking and camping in my RV exploring all this beautiful world has to offer.
How long have you been involved with US4K?
I’ve been involved with Urban Surf 4 Kids for the past ten years. A lot has changed in that time and I am so proud of where this organization is and how many youth we’ve served.
How did you get involved?
Having spent time as a Big Brother I was looking to start a non-profit that would allow mentors and their littles access to the ocean. I started researching and found US4K. I went to my first surf camp alone, but quickly found my new family. I started off teaching youth to surf, which led to becoming the head in-water safety leader. From there I saw great potential in this organization and quickly took on more and more responsibility and really dedicated my time to creating a strong foundation for the organization to be around for many years.
Describe some of your all time favorite moments with US4K.
There are so many to list. I’ll never forget my first Dreaming of Aloha trip. I looked at this trip as something we do just for the kids and it would just give them a break from everyday life. What occurred was something different. I watched these kids push their boundaries and they began giving way more than they received. We all created an undeniable bond on that trip.
Any volunteer knows those moments we live for. It’s the time after months and months of working with a kid, being consistent and supportive, when you watch them let that guard down with you. I’ve seen it many times and it always gives me goose bumps, or “chicken skin” as the Hawaiians say. It’s the moments where the kids feel loved and supported and they open up and let you in. This looks different with every child. Sometimes it’s a kid, who has been quiet and shut off for so long, then turning around screaming your name asking if you saw the amazing wave they just caught. Sometimes it’s a phone call or a talk on the beach where these kids feel comfortable enough to share their experiences with you. These are the moments I live for.
What US4K means to you.
When I first joined I thought US4K was just a surf camp…..boy was I wrong. US4K for me is a family, the ultimate Ohana.
Why should others get involved?
There is no greater gift than bringing joy to kiddos who have been through so much. We get to share something we love with these kids at every camp. We help them grow, we help them trust, and we help them heal.
