This blog post was written by Molly Burke, CAF Business Development Coordinator. Since joining the team in 2025, Molly has helped strengthen connections between partners, supporters, and athletes to expand opportunities through sport. 

On October 31, 2025, the 2nd Annual Surf for Impact Industry Invitational brought together surfers, colleagues, and friends from Southern California’s commercial real estate community. What began as a simple idea has quickly become a standout tradition—uniting people who care about movement, connection, and expanding access to adaptive sports. 

The morning started early as participants gathered on the sand to watch the sunrise and check the surf. Clean fall conditions, light offshore winds, and steady sets created an ideal environment for both new and returning surfers. Even before the first heat entered the water, the beach felt alive with conversations, laughter, and anticipation for a meaningful day. 

Waves, Camaraderie, and Purpose 

Surfers of all skill levels took part in the invitational, creating a lineup defined by encouragement and shared enthusiasm. The friendly atmosphere echoed the community-centered experience that many CAF athletes feel when they join adaptive surf clinics or competitions—where showing up for each other matters just as much as catching the perfect wave. 

Congratulations to Todd Prestage of Ocean Park Partners, who earned first place this year. The competition added excitement, but the heart of the event came from the athletes who shared their stories and experiences with the group. 

Athletes Leading the Way 

CAF athletes Ivan Chaban and Parker Olenick joined the event to speak about the role surfing has played in their lives. They shared how the sport has supported their confidence, independence, and emotional well-being—and how access to the right equipment and coaching opened pathways that once felt out of reach. 

Their stories grounded the event in its purpose. For many supporters on the beach, hearing directly from athletes built a deeper understanding of what adaptive surfing makes possible. 

Community Connections 

CAF surfers Sarah Bettencourt and Liv Stone also joined the day, connecting with participants and cheering on the action in the water. Their presence added to the sense of community that defines the Adaptive Surf program, offering attendees the chance to learn more about the sport and the athletes who are shaping it. 

Your involvement helps athletes with physical disabilities access the equipment, coaching, and community they need to experience the freedom of surfing. 

Impact That Reaches Far Beyond the Shore 

Thanks to the generosity and involvement of everyone who participated, the invitational raised $60,000. These funds directly support athletes with physical disabilities by providing: 

• Adaptive surf equipment 

• One-on-one and small-group coaching 

• Access to clinics, training opportunities, and competitions 

• Support for travel and resources that make participation possible 

Every contribution helps athletes build confidence, independence, and connection through surfing. 

A Community Driven by Shared Purpose 

Behind the scenes, the event’s success reflects the commitment of many supporters. Sponsors, partners, and volunteers played an essential role in creating a safe, welcoming environment for all participants. Special thanks go to Brian and Pierce, whose leadership and vision helped launch Surf for Impact and continue to shape its growth. 

As the final waves rolled in and surfers packed up their boards, the beach was still buzzing with conversations about next year’s event. The sense of community carried long past the finish—proof of what happens when people come together to share movement, purpose, and possibility. 

To everyone who paddled out, supported from the sand, contributed sponsorship, or helped plan the day—thank you. Your involvement strengthens a movement where every athlete has the chance to belong in sport.   

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