Surfing for a Purpose
Our Mission Statement
Veteran Surf Alliance is a Santa Cruz-based non-profit that creates fellowship and community among veterans through surfing, easing the transition between military service and civilian living. New veteran members will find the same camaraderie they had while serving in the military with members of their community.
The Veteran Surf Alliance accomplishes this by teaching, coaching, and mentoring veterans to surf and become respected members of their communities. We provide access to surfboards, essential surfing equipment, regular surf meetups, and annual events.
We meet in Santa Cruz on the last Saturday of every month and in Pacifica every Tuesday, rain or shine. The Gunrunner Surf Camp meets regularly to surf at night. Formal gatherings and special events include learn-to-surf days, snowboarding and camping trips, and community service projects. Our members travel from San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and as far as Sacramento and Fresno. We meet all over the Northern California coast.
Being a member of the VSA encourages a better sense of self and community. We welcome new members and supporters, stickers included!
*There are no membership dues or fees. Although we ask you to stick to our code of conduct.
We are a peer-led supportive community that fosters friendships, camaraderie, and stoke. Newcomers will be provided with soft-top surfboards, wetsuits, and instruction. We surf for about 2 hours, sharing the experience the ocean offers that day, then enjoy a post-surf snack.
Experience the healing effect of hitting the waves.
A study conducted in 2025 found that surfing can be used as a tool to help veterans who suffer from PTSD.
30%
experienced anxiety reduction
the
Findings
Deep sleep and REM sleep
Improved
significantly
Heart rate decreased by
12%
Depression levels dropped by
44%
How You Can Help
The VSA is veteran-led and volunteer-based, meaning that 100% of your donations go right back into the mission!
You can show your support by making a contribution to the Veteran Surf Alliance. You can donate securely using the button below.
The VSA is a non-profit 501(c)3 and all donations are tax-deductible.
Volunteer