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Description
Pockets Full of Sunshine will host the 2021 “Fun in the Sun for EVERYONE” day on Saturday, September 11 in front of Marriott’s Surf Watch on Hilton Head Island. Special needs members and their families of all ages and abilities are invited to join in this special annual event.
“Fun in the Sun for EVERYONE” will give special needs children and adults and their families the opportunity to enjoy the beach in a safe and inclusive setting. Activities will include: paddle boarding, boogie boarding, surfing, beach games and relaxation. Lifeguards and volunteers will be included in the event to ensure a safe environment for all. Adult/caregiver supervision is required for all attendees. Shuttles from the parking lot to the beach will be provided. Beach access is wheelchair accessible.
“Fun in the Sun for EVERYONE” has been built off a 2015 Special Needs Surf Day, started by local high school surfer, James Bartholomew, who wanted to provide a fun day of surfing for his sister and her classmates with special needs. The event continues to grow and in 2019, over 250 people attended. The 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID-19, but Pockets Full of Sunshine partnered with Forest Beach Surf to provide an opportunity for the “Rays” to enjoy the water, event during a pandemic.
Who
About Pockets Full of Sunshine: Since 2014, Pockets Full of Sunshine has been working to make the Lowcountry a “sunnier place” by providing social and vocational opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities. PFS programs enhance the lives of exceptional adults (our Rays), by increasing exposure and interactions within our community; promoting independence, growth, a sense of belonging, and personal pride. Founded by Dayna Dehlinger and Laurin Rivers, partnering with Carol & RJ Bartholomew, PFS has a goal of bridging the gap between general population and individuals with special needs.
Pockets Full of Sunshine was inspired by recycled material from an automotive label company that looks like a small yellow ‘sunshine’. The ‘sunshines’ are recycled and re-purposed by adults with disabilities who turn them into greeting cards, gift tags, magnets and stationary. Funds raised support community focused employment of adults with special needs. Pockets Full of Sunshine is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization.
Cost
FREEHow
Pre-Registration is encouraged so participants can request a t-shirt size and sign the event waiver. Volunteers should also register in advance on the website. Visit www.pocketsfullofsun.org for more information and to register online.