Removing Barriers, Riding Waves
A trip to Masonboro Island is always special, but last week’s felt a little different.
We got to watch our students’ hard work pay off in real time. We saw confidence grow, fears pushed aside, and a group of young men do something that, not long ago, would have felt completely outside their comfort zone. And, thankfully, we all got to catch a few waves too.
Our board member Max Smith and I are lifelong surfers. We love almost everything about our beaches, but we’ve always been aware of the lack of diversity in the lineup. It’s something we’ve talked about for years.
For the last two years, we’ve been working to create more opportunities for our students to experience the ocean in a way that goes beyond simply visiting the beach. Last week, that work came to life. Watching our students paddle out, cheer each other on, wipe out, get back up, and eventually find their footing on a wave was a reminder of what happens when young people are given access, encouragement, and the chance to try something hard.
At Schreiber, we often talk about removing barriers and replacing them with opportunities. Last week felt like a good example of that idea in action.
The surfing was great, but seeing our students discover a new source of confidence was even better. Those are the kinds of moments that stay with you.
To keep building these opportunities, we’re raising support for expanded programming this summer. If this resonates with you, donate here.
Tim Jarman
Executive Director, Schreiber Foundation
