Our beloved planet is 71% water. 1.36 billion cubic kilometers of it is ocean, but of the small percentage of water that strikes land on coastlines, these currents not only make waves, but create a beautiful, human connection back on land. Surfing is one part water sport, one part cultural fellowship.
The avid thrill-seekers and volunteers at WAVES for Development view surfing as a way to not only enjoy nature but also give back to the land and people who make it possible.
The nonprofit organization was created by international and local surfers on the beaches of northern Peru in 2004. WAVES aims to blur the lines between travel and volunteerism through educational and entrepreneurial programs that enrich local youth, and share the excitement of surfing.
Illumine Collect is a lifestyle apparel company that shares this same dedication of giving and helping others.
That is why Illumine Collect is proud to partner up with WAVES, and will donate 20% of each sale
to support their great mission.
With your help, these two organizations can change the lives of thousands of people. But if that’s not enough,
here are 10 more excellent reasons to contribute to the WAVES’ cause:
01 | Voluntourism is the name of the game
WAVES isn’t just a sensible name, it stands for the organization’s hallmarks: Water, Adventure, Voluntourism, Education, Sustainability.
.
02 | Great Clothes Going to A Great Cause
Think! That soft tee or trucker cap you just purchased from Illumine helps the futures of Peruvian kids
a continent away.
.
03 | International Community of Volunteers
WAVES is an international effort with members in Peru, Nicaragua, and Mexico.
.
04 | Pioneering Volunteerism
WAVES transforms the reason people travel to surf. Globetrotters can give back while they adventure.
.
05 | The Numbers Speak for Themselves
WAVES has committed 14,000 volunteer hours by 447 travelers since its inception…
.
06 | But the Giving Doesn’t Stop There
…and has donated more than $350,000 in grants to grassroots initiatives!
.
07 | WAVES Improves the Community from the Ground Up
Volunteers provide education to local youth and builds infrastructure.
.
08 | Who Doesn’t Like Surfing?
Your contribution to the Illumine-WAVES partnership brings surfing trips to 10 beautiful destinations.
.
09 | Surfing Isn’t Just Limited to the Tropics
WAVES even brings the joy of surfing to landlocked Sweden where they host numerous local events.
.
10 | Your Donation or Purchase Helps
Illumine’s contributions or even your own donation helps fund 10,000 future surf trips and $10,000,000 in grants given to local initiatives. Change starts with us.
This post was written by Erica Gasa, originally featured on Strandloopertjies.