SurfAid was started by a group of concerned surfers in 2000 who were struck by the needless suffering and preventable death in the Mentawai Islands. In partnership with communities and government, they work to prevent disease, suffering and death through educational programs and health promotion that aim to change poor health behaviours and reduce the risk from natural disasters.
SurfAid’s goal is to empower communities to help themselves and build local capacity so their improved health resilience is sustainable. The organisation advocates health and wellbeing for all and creates collaborative relationships with other stakeholder groups wherever possible so as to further sustained change in behaviour and development.
Two Years After The Tsunami
Community-based health programs involve education in nutrition, hygiene, healthy environments, and disease prevention – including mosquito net distribution. In response to an unfortunately frequent need, they have also built an award-winning capacity in Emergency Preparedness and have delivered practical, locally-based Emergency Responses.
SurfAid’s activities epitomise the universal human values expressed through local and global citizenship: Empathy and compassion, respect for community, social justice and equity for all. And a belief that we can all make a difference through economic, environmental and social sustainability.
To add your contribution and show your support, visit the SurfAid website to donate, or speak to your employer about setting up workplace giving, and make tax-deductible donations.