Surfers Without Limits
Healing PTSD Through the Power of Surfing
"There's an hour each week when I'm just like everyone else. When I'm on the waves, post-trauma isn't a part of me anymore."
Our Story
Inspired by the ‘Operation Surf’ film, we launched ‘Surfers Without Limits’ at Geula Beach in Tel Aviv. Our mission began with dedicated surfing instructors volunteering to support veterans from Sheba Hospital, who faced significant challenges. Each week, veterans gathered at the beach for coffee and cookies, while our team provided surfing guidance and a supportive space.
Today, we’ve grown into a strong community that not only surfs together but also supports and uplifts each other. This sense of belonging and mutual care is central to our mission, offering solace and strength to all involved.
Aviv, founder of Surfers Without Limits
How Does Surfing Help Improve Mental
Stability After Experiencing Trauma?
68%
Increase in Self-efficacy
74%
Decrease in Depression
38%
Decrease of PTSD Symptoms
*According to a study by Operation Surf foundation.
Our Mission
We strive to make a positive difference for veterans and war victims, both mentally and physically, by connecting them with the sea and creating a supportive community. We aim to demonstrate how communal surfing aids their rehabilitation and enhances their well-being. By establishing surfing as a valuable therapeutic tool, we seek to provide crucial support for these deserving individuals.
Our Vision
We aspire to operate as a rehabilitative water-sports center, accessible to groups of veterans injured in war and those suffering from PTSD. We aim to have this center open every day of the week as a social hub offering various empowering and supportive programs, with a primary focus on surfing. We aspire to create a welcoming home for those who seek it.
From Our Surfers
"Tuesday surf days quickly became the highlight of my week, and I found myself hoping time would speed up just to get there sooner."
"Ever since I started surfing, I’ve looked forward to tomorrow's waves. And since I’ve been focused on those waves, I no longer think about ending my life."
—Former Mista'arev
The love and support I receive from the volunteers and being part of this community make me feel like I'm not alone in the world. Since I started surfing, I've begun to envision a different life for myself—a life with purpose. I'm now motivated to stay fit, be healthy, and even become a surfing instructor."
—Fighter at Yahalom Unit, injured in Operation Protective Edge
Help us grow by making a donation
Since the tragic events of October 7th, the demand for our surfing lessons has surged. We now assist veterans and survivors of the Nova music festival, which has added hundreds more participants in need. Despite expanding to four sessions a week, we’re still falling short, especially with many instructors on reserve duty.
How will your donation make an impact?
Providing food for our activities
Purchasing essential equipment and gear.
Hiring paid instructors and mentors to operate the center around the clock.
Training and certification of rehabilitative instructors.
Insuring all of our surfers
Contact Us
Aviv +972 54-444-944
Official Sponsor
Our Partners
