2023 Stories of Stoke: Meet Candace, 2023 Hanai Co-Lead!

Hello All! My name is Candace and I have been involved with US4K for 2 years. I was introduced through a surf buddy who works for Urban and ultimately decided to join after hearing all the positive things she had to say about the organization and its impacts on disadvantaged youth. I started off as an in-water volunteer at surf camps and decided to step-up my commitment last year as a Hanai Mentorship co-leader! In my free time, you can find me surfing, freediving, reading, and hiking.

My favorite memory has been all of the boogie boarding I have gotten to do with the kids in my group! We have shared waves together, raced our hearts off, and so much more- It has been so heartwarming and fun to watch them learn new sports, improve their skills, develop trust in adults that once used to be strangers, and share joy with one another!

I keep coming back as a volunteer because of how enjoyable it is to get to develop close relationships with these kids, to be able to watch them grow, become more confident and independent, and ultimately… to share my love and stoke of the ocean with them!

My memories as a surf camp volunteer and co-lead of the mentorship program would not have been the same if it weren’t for the passionate, hardworking staff that provided support every step of the way. They have made this an awesome, fulfilling experience for all involved and I will remember all these touching memories for years to come. Thank you US4K!