SurfAid International

SurfAid volunteers evacuating an injured man during the 2010 Mentawai earthquake and tsunami

SurfAid International is a non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to improving the health, wellbeing, and self-reliance of people living in isolated regions connected to us through surfing. Founded in 2000 by Dr. Dave Jenkins, a New Zealand-born physician, after witnessing the suffering and preventable health issues in the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia, SurfAid has grown into a notable global humanitarian organization. Its mission is to support communities in remote areas, primarily those in Indonesia, by providing access to healthcare, clean water, sanitation, and disease prevention.

History

SurfAid was established when Dr. Dave Jenkins visited the Mentawai Islands on a surfing trip. Shocked by the unnecessary suffering and death in the local communities, particularly among women and children, he was motivated to create an organization that could address these preventable health issues. SurfAid's approach has always been community-based, working closely with the local people to understand their needs and develop sustainable solutions.

Programs

SurfAid's programs focus on several key areas:

• Health Education and Disease Prevention: SurfAid runs programs aimed at reducing the incidence of preventable diseases such as malaria, diarrhea, and acute respiratory infections through education and prevention strategies.

• Water and Sanitation: Recognizing the critical role of clean water and proper sanitation in health, SurfAid works to improve access to clean water and to educate communities on sanitation practices.

• Nutrition: SurfAid's nutrition programs aim to address malnutrition, particularly among children and pregnant women, through education and sustainable agriculture practices.

• Disaster Preparedness: Given the vulnerability of remote communities to natural disasters, SurfAid also focuses on disaster preparedness training and emergency response.

Impact

SurfAid's impact is measured not just by the immediate health improvements seen in the communities it serves, but also by the increased self-reliance and empowerment of these communities. By involving community members in the planning and implementation of its programs, SurfAid ensures that its interventions are sustainable and culturally sensitive.

Partnerships

SurfAid collaborates with a wide range of partners, including local and regional governments, other non-profit organizations, and the global surfing community. These partnerships are crucial for amplifying SurfAid's impact and reaching more communities.

Challenges

Working in remote areas presents unique challenges, from logistical difficulties in delivering supplies and personnel, to the need for culturally sensitive approaches to health education and intervention. SurfAid's commitment to community-based solutions and local partnerships has been key to overcoming these challenges.

Future Directions

SurfAid continues to expand its reach to new communities while deepening its impact in the areas it already serves. Innovations in health education, sustainable agriculture, and water and sanitation infrastructure remain priorities for the organization as it moves forward.