What we’re about
Hi.
Thanks for checking out our group.
Scroll down for intro & info about our group.
–
Upcoming events:
May (maybe) @ Sedona – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291625223
May (Memorial Day weekend) @ Sequoia – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291160337
May (maybe) @ Kings Canyon – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291627102
June @ Santa Monica Beach – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291976589
June (maybe) @ Eastern Sierra / Kearsarge Pass – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291628000
July @ Rocky Mountain – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/290759500
July @ Denver, Colorado – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291625666
August @ Glacier & Yellowstone – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/290447742
August @ Huntington Beach – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291976774
September @ La Jolla – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291976816
October @ Santa Barbara – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291976980
October @ Washington DC & Toronto, Canada – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/291625717
April 2024 @ Austin, TX or Buffalo, NY – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/292764687
April 2024 @ Orlando, FL – https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/293456342
–
Our group has kind, caring, and open-minded people, so some volunteer opportunities and Native American pow wow events might also be added:
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/events/calendar
For more volunteer opportunities, check out our other group:
https://www.meetup.com/LAVolunteer/events/calendar
–
A quick note to any who message(d) me – Meetup has a weird bug where anyone can email (me) an organizer, but if you're not a member of this group or another group we're mutually both in, then Meetup won't allow me to respond. It might be an anti-spam feature. So if anyone messaged me in the past, I'm sorry for not replying. I honestly tried, but Meetup's messaging system is strict. If anyone doesn't want to join this group, but has a question, try emailing me at wisejunkemail@gmail.com and I check that email account once a week.
–
Do you love being outside in nature, going on adventures, discovering new places, making new friends, and creating new memories?
Do you spend more time on social media than being social with real humans?
Do your friends prefer staying indoors with the virtual world (phone, tv, movies, video games, internet, etc.) ?
Or are your outdoorsy friends always busy?
Is there a fun destination you want to go to, but haven't yet because nobody was available to join you?
Are you bored of doing the same things and going to the same places every weekend?
–
Well then, good news.
Our group has many cool, friendly, and like-minded individuals.
I plan a few events/trips throughout the year, and everyone is encouraged to host their own event.
If there is a hike you want to do, a place you want to visit, or a trip/activity you want to plan...then share your idea so others can join you.
–
More info - www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/events/239368546
–
FYI: Many people ask, so I'll mention it here. Wiseman sounds like a fake name, internet moniker, or nickname, but it's my real name. Ironically, I'm pretty dumb. ;)
And if what I look like matters, use a web browser and go to https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/members/69743242
and under my main photo, click on "Tagged photos" and you can judge me...and decide if you want to join our group/events/trips. :)
***
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oZBIfqGvNM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UaHljP1ar4
***
If anyone is brand new to camping, some of our trips are good for first-timers.
***
For any dog-owners - as you know, many national & state parks prohibit dogs on hiking trails.
However, our Eastern Sierra & Mammoth trips are dog friendly.
Mammoth & Eastern Sierra are beautiful. Many trails allow dogs to run around and even jump/swim in lakes.
So your dogs don't have to be sad or jealous when you go to national parks without them.
Bring them on a fun camping trip!
And let them chase squirrels!
***
–
***
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Online Meeting to Learn about Volunteering with Kids Camp [Wed & Thur]Needs location
Preface: This is NOT an online meeting with Meetup or me.
Instead, it's with Comfort Zone Camp and their staff.
I'm merely posting this to help spread the word.
Thanks to everyone who voted last November.
You helped them win a $100,000 award, which will support more children.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=767418368761949&set=pcb.767418408761945
Hi.
During the past few years, I've met MANY quality individuals from volunteering and camping & hiking trips.
If you are a good person or know someone who is, then one of my favorite volunteer experiences is with Comfort Zone Camp.
They host bereavement camps for kids who lost a parent, sibling, or other family member.
Sadly, some children lose a parent or sibling, and dealing with death can be traumatic and painful...but this camp helps them process grief and mourning.
These camps are free for kids to attend.
***
I've volunteered over forty times for Comfort Zone Camp and three times for Camp Erin (another children's bereavement camp).
Some aspects are sad (e.g. hearing stories of kids who lost a parent), and sometimes there's some crying, but overall, the camps can also be fun, filled with smiling & laughing too.
So if you or someone you know can be sympathetic/empathetic and a positive role model, they have camps throughout the U.S. and welcome new volunteers.
***
.
If interested in learning more, check their website:
Comfort Zone Camp
https://comfortzonecamp.org/volunteers
https://comfortzonecamp.org/calendar
.
Many members in this group are in Southern California, but a few are in Northern California.
SoCal camp is March 8 - 10; August 23 - 25; and October 11 - 13
NorCal camp is August 2 - 4
This year, CZC will also offer camps in Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Their website has more info (such as dates & locations) -
https://comfortzonecamp.org/calendar
If you know anyone who lives in/near any of those states, please feel free to help spread the word.
In 2022, I helped at camps in California, Utah, New Jersey, and Virginia.
Last year in 2023, I helped in Northern & Southern California, Florida, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.
This year, I'll probably return to those same locations, along with Boston.
Southern California camps are:
August 23 - 25
https://comfortzonecamp.org/event/california-weekend-camp-programs-for-ages-7-17
and
October 11 - 13
Northern California camp is August 2 - 4
.
Important:
If anyone is new to Comfort Zone Camp and interested in helping, they require attending an online orientation, which is usually for 2 nights.
They currently have a few 2-day orientation meetings to choose from: (you decide)
June 25 - 26, Tues & Wed, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm PST
or
July 9 - 10, Tues & Wed, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm PST
or
Aug 21 - 22, Wed & Thurs, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm PST
or
Aug 28 - 29, Wed & Thurs, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm PST
To attend an online meeting, click on the aforementioned website above to sign up with them (click the "Register to Volunteer" button).
btw, a few people have expressed concern about the volunteer registration process asking for Social Security #.
Totally fine if anyone feels hesitant, reluctant, worried, etc...
Personally, I don't think CZC will scam you or steal your identity, but it's up to you to decide if you want to go through their volunteer application process.
I have volunteered for numerous organizations with children -- and background checks are standard and required -- so keeping children safe is paramount.
Some group members have asked in the past about the zoom meeting link.
To reiterate, if serious about getting involved, sign up with CZC before the meeting so they have time to provide the zoom meeting link.
To attend an online meeting, click on the aforementioned website above to sign up with them (click the "Register to Volunteer" button).
Note
CZC headquarters is in Virginia, so their website might show east coast time, but Pacific time is shown here.
If anyone wants to participate in their new volunteer orientation & training, but the day or time is challenging, please contact Comfort Zone Camp to discuss.
After new volunteers complete their online orientation and pass a background check -- they're eligible to register for a camp.
However, signing up to help isn't guaranteed.
Volunteer roles/spots can be limited. (Sometimes they have more interested volunteers than actual positions -- so please don't be upset/angry if you're not assigned.
Several returning volunteers help, so it's possible they might not have space for everyone who applies / registers...however, they sometimes are in need of male volunteers, so guys are highly encouraged to sign up.
***
.
Regarding the camping aspect...this is not tent camping.
Think of it like a summer camp where school children go and stay in cabins...so they usually use established/developed venues.
Cabins with bunk beds, restrooms with flush toilets, sinks with running water, showers, a dining room where the kitchen staff prepares meals, etc.
Volunteers typically bring their own sleeping bag, pillow, blanket, etc...but there's no need to bring other camping equipment/gear (e.g. tent, air mattress/mad/pad, stove, etc.).
***
.
The following videos are old, but explain what the camp is about -
Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLF7KWgfwfg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7JNYy07osI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbk2Pigfb_U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLwYyfpwfHU
***
.
If anyone has questions, check out the CZC website and contact them.
If anyone is curious about volunteering and has any questions, feel free to contact me directly. I'm happy to talk about Comfort Zone Camp.
I absolutely love their mission.
I've met many good people (both adult volunteers and kids) at these camps.
And although the topic of death can be morbid and depressing, this camp has helped me appreciate life and to not take things/people/life for granted.
Anyhow, I don't expect many people to be interested in this, but who knows, maybe this might resonate with one person.
From Time Magazine:
https://time.com/6286420/suicide-bereavement-camps-kids
btw, in addition to the big buddy role -- nurses are sometimes also needed.
Everyone is busy, and free time is limited, so totally understandable giving up an entire weekend is challenging for many.
For any who are able to participate -- it's truly a life-changing experience that should leave an indelible impact.
Note - the camp usually starts on Friday afternoon, so other volunteers usually take Friday off from work, or work a half day, in order to have sufficient time to arrive by 2:30 pm.
***
Oh, in addition to Comfort Zone Camp, another children's camp that is similar is called Camp Erin. However, they might have changed their name to Eluna.
It was started by a former major league baseball player and his wife.
I don't know about right now, but years ago, nearly every city with a MLB team had a Camp Erin, so in addition to Los Angeles / SoCal, San Diego, there should also be other camps throughout the country.
LA - https://www.ourhouse-grief.org/camp-erin
https://elunanetwork.org/camps-programs/camp-erin
I've only volunteered around three times with Camp Erin, but if anyone has general questions, feel free to lmk.
***
Lastly, another special camp is The Painted Turtle.
Similarly, their camps are free for children. The kids who attend their camps are afflicted with a serious medical/health condition.
If you've seen salad dressings, sauces, or other food products from Paul Newman, then The Painted Turtle is one of the charities they support.
https://www.thepaintedturtle.org
***
So yeah, if there's anyone out there who also enjoys both volunteering and camping, then I wanted to share about these camps.
Cheers.
...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
- Beach Day (Huntington)Huntington Beach All Inclusive Playground, Huntington Beach, CA
Preface:
This might be far for some group members in/near LA, but this is a special event imo, so I want to post this in case anyone is interested, available, and willing to drive to OC.
This is one of my favorite events.
If this date/location in Huntington Beach is inconvenient, similar events are happening in Santa Monica, La Jolla, and Santa Barbara.
I'm out of town this wknd and can't attend, but I still want to share about this.
If any group members want to hang out at the beach, this can be a possible meetup.
If any group members want to plan a beach day get-together and hang out together, use the comments section or event chat to coordinate (e.g. discuss carpooling, when & where to meet, etc.). If attending this as a beach day -- then this flexible, so arrive and leave whenever you want.
If volunteering, they usually start around 7 - 7:30 am for check in.
The following is for those interested in volunteering. If not volunteering, and just interested in hanging out at the beach, then you can ignore the text below.
If volunteering, try to arrive by 7 or 7:30 am.
If not volunteering, i.e. hanging out, then feel free to arrive later, like 9 or 10 am.
***
Hi.
I try to spread the word about volunteer opportunities and raise awareness about non-profits/charities that do good work.
This event is from Life Rolls On.
"Life Rolls On is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people affected by spinal cord injury" and other disabilities.
They host "epic surf and skate events for wheelchair athletes."
Their videos show what they're about
***
2024 Schedule - https://liferollson.org/tour
June 8 @ Santa Monica - https://liferollson.org/santamonica
July 27 @ Venice - https://liferollson.org/venice
Aug 24 @ Huntington Beach - https://liferollson.org/huntingtonbeach
Sept 21 @ La Jolla - https://liferollson.org/lajolla
Oct 5 @ Santa Barbara - https://liferollson.org/santabarbara
***
Being a surfer or advanced swimmer isn't required.
Owning a wetsuit isn't required either. Renting or borrowing a wetsuit is recommended for those helping in the deep water.
For those who are just calf-high or knee-high in the shallow water, many people seemed fine with just shorts or a swimsuit.
Life Rolls On surfing events are popular and attract hundreds of volunteers, so their online registration will eventually become full and closed.
If anyone wants to help support and cheer on individuals (kids & adults) who might not otherwise have an opportunity to go in the ocean/water, this event is highly recommended.
***
FAQ & More Info: https://liferollson.org/volunteer-faq
Video about volunteering: https://vimeo.com/110543459
To help, sign up early at
https://liferollson.org/santamonica
Online registration for volunteering might get full, but from my observation, they usually allow walk-ons who show up in the morning and sign up in person.
They often accept extra volunteers to help in the water. So if their online registration closes, it should be okay to show up early and register in person.
If anyone doesn't have time to commit for the entire event, that's totally fine. Instead of volunteering for the whole day, feel free to stop by for an hour or two, hang out at the beach, and watch & cheer. Arrive and leave whenever you want.
This is a pretty heart-warming, uplifting, and inspirational event imo.
***
Photos:
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32876888
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32876714
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32873261
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32532524
https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/photos/32061166
https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/photos/31681706
https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/photos/31807612
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3044099849033371
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3043915855718437
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1718146218295414
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1718043311639038
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1299737523469621
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1286605771449463
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1209250355851672
https://www.facebook.com/pg/LifeRollsOnFoundation/photos/?tab=albums
https://www.six12media.com/Surfing/Life-Rolls-On
Videos:
***
So a few experienced surfers are designated to help the individuals directly with surfing.
The majority of other volunteers in the water help in a supporting role.
My conjecture is going into the water/ocean can be pretty scary and terrifying for some individuals, especially for those who cannot use their legs (lower body).
The abundance of volunteers in the water can be encouraging and offer some relief to those who might be afraid they can't swim.
The first time I went, it initially looked like "too many" or "more than enough" volunteers. One benefit of having several volunteers is because they need to be scattered throughout and positioned at different locations in case a wave knocks over a participant. If someone goes under water, then somebody nearby should be able to immediately pick him/her up.
So if a participant accidentally loses balance and falls over, or crashes into the sand/beach (since many of them can't use their legs/feet), then a volunteer can help lift him/her above water.
All in all, this is a pretty cool community event imo.
***
Recommended items to bring:
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, comfortable clothes, flip-flops / sandals, towel, water, change of clothes, etc.
Free snacks and water are sometimes provided.
A light lunch is usually provided for volunteers.
***
If any group members want to hang out together and watch, feel free to use the discussion section or event chat to coordinate & communicate (when to arrive, where to meet, carpool, etc.).
If any group members want to volunteer on the same team (color), feel free to contact Life Rolls On, and they can try to assign you to the same team.
But if nobody else from the group registers -- fear not, because the other volunteers are friendly & welcoming imo...so you should have fun meeting new people.
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
- Online Meeting to Learn about Volunteering with Kids Camp [Wed & Thur]Needs location
Preface: This is NOT an online meeting with Meetup or me.
Instead, it's with Comfort Zone Camp and their staff.
I'm merely posting this to help spread the word.
Thanks to everyone who voted last November.
You helped them win a $100,000 award, which will support more children.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=767418368761949&set=pcb.767418408761945
Hi.
During the past few years, I've met MANY quality individuals from volunteering and camping & hiking trips.
If you are a good person or know someone who is, then one of my favorite volunteer experiences is with Comfort Zone Camp.
They host bereavement camps for kids who lost a parent, sibling, or other family member.
Sadly, some children lose a parent or sibling, and dealing with death can be traumatic and painful...but this camp helps them process grief and mourning.
These camps are free for kids to attend.
***
I've volunteered over forty times for Comfort Zone Camp and three times for Camp Erin (another children's bereavement camp).
Some aspects are sad (e.g. hearing stories of kids who lost a parent), and sometimes there's some crying, but overall, the camps can also be fun, filled with smiling & laughing too.
So if you or someone you know can be sympathetic/empathetic and a positive role model, they have camps throughout the U.S. and welcome new volunteers.
***
.
If interested in learning more, check their website:
Comfort Zone Camp
https://comfortzonecamp.org/volunteers
https://comfortzonecamp.org/calendar
.
Many members in this group are in Southern California, but a few are in Northern California.
SoCal camp is March 8 - 10; August 23 - 25; and October 11 - 13
NorCal camp is August 2 - 4
This year, CZC will also offer camps in Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Their website has more info (such as dates & locations) -
https://comfortzonecamp.org/calendar
If you know anyone who lives in/near any of those states, please feel free to help spread the word.
In 2022, I helped at camps in California, Utah, New Jersey, and Virginia.
Last year in 2023, I helped in Northern & Southern California, Florida, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.
This year, I'll probably return to those same locations, along with Boston.
Southern California camps are:
August 23 - 25
https://comfortzonecamp.org/event/california-weekend-camp-programs-for-ages-7-17
and
October 11 - 13
Northern California camp is August 2 - 4
.
Important:
If anyone is new to Comfort Zone Camp and interested in helping, they require attending an online orientation, which is usually for 2 nights.
They currently have a few 2-day orientation meetings to choose from: (you decide)
June 25 - 26, Tues & Wed, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm PST
or
July 9 - 10, Tues & Wed, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm PST
or
Aug 21 - 22, Wed & Thurs, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm PST
or
Aug 28 - 29, Wed & Thurs, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm PST
To attend an online meeting, click on the aforementioned website above to sign up with them (click the "Register to Volunteer" button).
btw, a few people have expressed concern about the volunteer registration process asking for Social Security #.
Totally fine if anyone feels hesitant, reluctant, worried, etc...
Personally, I don't think CZC will scam you or steal your identity, but it's up to you to decide if you want to go through their volunteer application process.
I have volunteered for numerous organizations with children -- and background checks are standard and required -- so keeping children safe is paramount.
Some group members have asked in the past about the zoom meeting link.
To reiterate, if serious about getting involved, sign up with CZC before the meeting so they have time to provide the zoom meeting link.
To attend an online meeting, click on the aforementioned website above to sign up with them (click the "Register to Volunteer" button).
Note
CZC headquarters is in Virginia, so their website might show east coast time, but Pacific time is shown here.
If anyone wants to participate in their new volunteer orientation & training, but the day or time is challenging, please contact Comfort Zone Camp to discuss.
After new volunteers complete their online orientation and pass a background check -- they're eligible to register for a camp.
However, signing up to help isn't guaranteed.
Volunteer roles/spots can be limited. (Sometimes they have more interested volunteers than actual positions -- so please don't be upset/angry if you're not assigned.
Several returning volunteers help, so it's possible they might not have space for everyone who applies / registers...however, they sometimes are in need of male volunteers, so guys are highly encouraged to sign up.
***
.
Regarding the camping aspect...this is not tent camping.
Think of it like a summer camp where school children go and stay in cabins...so they usually use established/developed venues.
Cabins with bunk beds, restrooms with flush toilets, sinks with running water, showers, a dining room where the kitchen staff prepares meals, etc.
Volunteers typically bring their own sleeping bag, pillow, blanket, etc...but there's no need to bring other camping equipment/gear (e.g. tent, air mattress/mad/pad, stove, etc.).
***
.
The following videos are old, but explain what the camp is about -
Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLF7KWgfwfg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7JNYy07osI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbk2Pigfb_U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLwYyfpwfHU
***
.
If anyone has questions, check out the CZC website and contact them.
If anyone is curious about volunteering and has any questions, feel free to contact me directly. I'm happy to talk about Comfort Zone Camp.
I absolutely love their mission.
I've met many good people (both adult volunteers and kids) at these camps.
And although the topic of death can be morbid and depressing, this camp has helped me appreciate life and to not take things/people/life for granted.
Anyhow, I don't expect many people to be interested in this, but who knows, maybe this might resonate with one person.
From Time Magazine:
https://time.com/6286420/suicide-bereavement-camps-kids
btw, in addition to the big buddy role -- nurses are sometimes also needed.
Everyone is busy, and free time is limited, so totally understandable giving up an entire weekend is challenging for many.
For any who are able to participate -- it's truly a life-changing experience that should leave an indelible impact.
Note - the camp usually starts on Friday afternoon, so other volunteers usually take Friday off from work, or work a half day, in order to have sufficient time to arrive by 2:30 pm.
***
Oh, in addition to Comfort Zone Camp, another children's camp that is similar is called Camp Erin. However, they might have changed their name to Eluna.
It was started by a former major league baseball player and his wife.
I don't know about right now, but years ago, nearly every city with a MLB team had a Camp Erin, so in addition to Los Angeles / SoCal, San Diego, there should also be other camps throughout the country.
LA - https://www.ourhouse-grief.org/camp-erin
https://elunanetwork.org/camps-programs/camp-erin
I've only volunteered around three times with Camp Erin, but if anyone has general questions, feel free to lmk.
***
Lastly, another special camp is The Painted Turtle.
Similarly, their camps are free for children. The kids who attend their camps are afflicted with a serious medical/health condition.
If you've seen salad dressings, sauces, or other food products from Paul Newman, then The Painted Turtle is one of the charities they support.
https://www.thepaintedturtle.org
***
So yeah, if there's anyone out there who also enjoys both volunteering and camping, then I wanted to share about these camps.
Cheers.
...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
- Beach Day (La Jolla)La Jolla Shores Beach, La Jolla, CA
Preface:
This might be far for some group members in/near LA, but this is a special event imo, so I want to post this in case anyone is interested, available, and willing to drive to La Jolla (north of San Diego).
This is one of my favorite events.
If this date/location in La Jolla is inconvenient, similar events are happening in Santa Monica, Huntington, and Santa Barbara.
I'm out of town this wknd and can't attend, but I still want to share about this.
If any group members want to hang out at the beach, this can be a possible meetup.
If any group members want to plan a beach day get-together and hang out together, use the comments section or event chat to coordinate (e.g. discuss carpooling, when & where to meet, etc.). If attending this as a beach day -- then this flexible, so arrive and leave whenever you want.
If volunteering, they usually start around 7 - 7:30 am for check in.
The following is for those interested in volunteering. If not volunteering, and just interested in hanging out at the beach, then you can ignore the text below.
If volunteering, try to arrive by 7 or 7:30 am.
If not volunteering, i.e. hanging out, then feel free to arrive later, like 9 or 10 am.
***
Hi.
I try to spread the word about volunteer opportunities and raise awareness about non-profits/charities that do good work.
This event is from Life Rolls On.
"Life Rolls On is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people affected by spinal cord injury" and other disabilities.
They host "epic surf and skate events for wheelchair athletes."
Their videos show what they're about
***
2024 Schedule - https://liferollson.org/tour
June 8 @ Santa Monica - https://liferollson.org/santamonica
July 27 @ Venice - https://liferollson.org/venice
Aug 24 @ Huntington Beach - https://liferollson.org/huntingtonbeach
Sept 21 @ La Jolla - https://liferollson.org/lajolla
Oct 5 @ Santa Barbara - https://liferollson.org/santabarbara
***
Being a surfer or advanced swimmer isn't required.
Owning a wetsuit isn't required either. Renting or borrowing a wetsuit is recommended for those helping in the deep water.
For those who are just calf-high or knee-high in the shallow water, many people seemed fine with just shorts or a swimsuit.
Life Rolls On surfing events are popular and attract hundreds of volunteers, so their online registration will eventually become full and closed.
If anyone wants to help support and cheer on individuals (kids & adults) who might not otherwise have an opportunity to go in the ocean/water, this event is highly recommended.
***
FAQ & More Info: https://liferollson.org/volunteer-faq
Video about volunteering: https://vimeo.com/110543459
To help, sign up early at
https://liferollson.org/santamonica
Online registration for volunteering might get full, but from my observation, they usually allow walk-ons who show up in the morning and sign up in person.
They often accept extra volunteers to help in the water. So if their online registration closes, it should be okay to show up early and register in person.
If anyone doesn't have time to commit for the entire event, that's totally fine. Instead of volunteering for the whole day, feel free to stop by for an hour or two, hang out at the beach, and watch & cheer. Arrive and leave whenever you want.
This is a pretty heart-warming, uplifting, and inspirational event imo.
***
Photos:
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32876888
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32876714
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32873261
https://www.meetup.com/la_camping/photos/32532524
https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/photos/32061166
https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/photos/31681706
https://www.meetup.com/LA_Camping/photos/31807612
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3044099849033371
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3043915855718437
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1718146218295414
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1718043311639038
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1299737523469621
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1286605771449463
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1209250355851672
https://www.facebook.com/pg/LifeRollsOnFoundation/photos/?tab=albums
https://www.six12media.com/Surfing/Life-Rolls-On
Videos:
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So a few experienced surfers are designated to help the individuals directly with surfing.
The majority of other volunteers in the water help in a supporting role.
My conjecture is going into the water/ocean can be pretty scary and terrifying for some individuals, especially for those who cannot use their legs (lower body).
The abundance of volunteers in the water can be encouraging and offer some relief to those who might be afraid they can't swim.
The first time I went, it initially looked like "too many" or "more than enough" volunteers. One benefit of having several volunteers is because they need to be scattered throughout and positioned at different locations in case a wave knocks over a participant. If someone goes under water, then somebody nearby should be able to immediately pick him/her up.
So if a participant accidentally loses balance and falls over, or crashes into the sand/beach (since many of them can't use their legs/feet), then a volunteer can help lift him/her above water.
All in all, this is a pretty cool community event imo.
***
Recommended items to bring:
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, comfortable clothes, flip-flops / sandals, towel, water, change of clothes, etc.
Free snacks and water are sometimes provided.
A light lunch is usually provided for volunteers.
***
If any group members want to hang out together and watch, feel free to use the discussion section or event chat to coordinate & communicate (when to arrive, where to meet, carpool, etc.).
If any group members want to volunteer on the same team (color), feel free to contact Life Rolls On, and they can try to assign you to the same team.
But if nobody else from the group registers -- fear not, because the other volunteers are friendly & welcoming imo...so you should have fun meeting new people.
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