During a “Surf for the Soul” event at Puaʻena Point Beach Park, professional surfer Billy Choi shared his expertise with youth, teaching them not only how to stand on a surfboard but also the importance of resilience in the face of challenges. Choi emphasized that surfing serves as an effective tool and coping mechanism for navigating life’s ups and downs.
“Life has waves—continuous forces being thrown at you, whether positive or negative. It’s up to us to navigate them, plot our course, and set our sails,” Choi explained. He also shared how surfing had been instrumental in helping him overcome personal struggles.
This event was conducted in partnership with Kids Hurt Too Hawaii, a nonprofit organization offering free programs and support services for children and caregivers impacted by grief and trauma. The children participating have faced significant challenges, including the loss of loved ones, foster care, abandonment, or a parent’s incarceration or death.
Hiro Ito, who started the event 23 years ago, sought to harness the ocean’s healing power to bring joy and comfort to children who have endured immense hardships. “I want children to have fun and be healed by having so much fun,” Ito said. “When they’re on land, they’re angry, but after surfing, they come back calm and relaxed.”
The program is hosted at least four times a year, with support from volunteers and sponsors. During this session, food donations were provided by Seven Brothers and Banzai Sushi, while North Shore Surf Shop contributed surfboards for the children. Families involved expressed gratitude for the opportunity to heal through the program.
One participant, 13-year-old Seth, shared, “I get out and experience life. It’s pretty fun.” Seven-year-old Elizabeth added, “It makes me feel free and not just sad and alone. I just feel happy.” Elizabeth’s grandmother, Suzanne, noted how important the event was for her granddaughter. “Elizabeth has a lot of trauma symptoms, and this is one way for her to release them and feel herself again. I really appreciate Billy Choi, Kids Hurt Too Hawaii, and all the professionals who made this possible. It means so much to the kids.”
The event highlights the transformative power of the ocean and the positive impact of community support for children coping with loss and trauma. For more information on programs offered by Kids Hurt Too Hawaii, visit their website at kidshurttoo.org.
Mental Health Resources
For those in need of additional support, several resources are available:
Hawaii CARES 988: Local crisis counselors are available 24/7 via phone, text, or chat for help with mental illness, substance use, and suicide prevention. Call or text 988 for immediate assistance, or reach Hawaii CARES directly at (808) 832-3100 or 1-800-753-6879.
Maui Nui Strong Mental Health Resources: A collection of mental health services organized by Maui County for those in need.
Disaster Distress Helpline: Available 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990 (press “2” for Spanish) for those experiencing emotional distress due to crises or natural disasters.
Hazel Health: In partnership with the Hawaii Department of Education, this program provides free health care services to students. Therapy sessions can be accessed at school or at home during regular hours.
DOH Maui Community Mental Health Center (CMHC): Offering crisis mental health services and expanded hours for individuals affected by the Maui wildfires. Call (808) 984-2150 or visit their clinic at 121 Mahalani Street, Wailuku.
These resources aim to provide comprehensive support for individuals and families navigating emotional or psychological challenges.