That's not an exaggeration — it's exactly what happens every time Ride a Wave (RAW) rolls out its camp at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz. And this Saturday, June 20, 2026, they're doing it again with Julie's Camp #2, running from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Whether you're a family hoping to give your child an extraordinary experience, a community member looking to volunteer, or simply someone who wants to witness the magic of a kid catching their first wave — this is an event you won't want to miss.

What Is Ride a Wave?

Ride a Wave is a Santa Cruz-based nonprofit organization with a mission as simple as it is powerful: to give children with disabilities the chance to feel the thrill of riding a wave and enjoy a safe, fun-filled day at the beach — whether they are physically, developmentally, or economically challenged.

Since its founding in 1998 by former tandem surfing champion and lifeguard Danny Cortazzo, RAW has helped over 2,500 kids experience the ocean. It is a 100% volunteer-run organization — every person who shows up on beach day does so out of pure heart and community spirit. There are no paid positions, no ticket prices, and no catch.

Every activity at every RAW camp is completely free — no cost to any child, family, or organization. Ever.

About Julie's Camp #2

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
• Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Location: Cowell Beach, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Contact: [email protected]
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Julie's Camp #2 is part of RAW's 2026 beach camp season, a series of carefully organized single-day events tailored to give participants the full RAW experience. Named in honor of supporters and community members, each camp carries a spirit of dedication and love.

What Happens at a RAW Camp?

A RAW camp day is packed from start to finish. Here's a look at what participants can expect:

A Lifeguard Demonstration & Marine Safety Orientation — Before anyone touches the water, kids and their families learn about ocean safety from experienced lifeguards. Safety is RAW's absolute top priority, and their spotless safety record across more than two decades is a testament to that commitment.

Stretching and Sunscreen — Every participant is properly prepared for the sun and surf before the fun begins.

Beach Obstacle Course — Energy and laughter fill the sand as campers tackle a beach obstacle course designed for all ability levels.

Boogie Boarding — Feel the rush of the waves without needing to stand up. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned wave-riders alike.

Kayaking — Participants take to the water in kayaks, guided by trained volunteers every step of the way.

Tandem Surfing — The crown jewel of every RAW camp. Children are paired with trained volunteers who guide them onto a surfboard and help them experience the pure, joyful sensation of riding a wave. Participants are fitted with wetsuits, life vests, and safety helmets before entering the water.

Snacks, Water & a Hot Lunch — No one goes hungry. RAW ensures every camper is fueled and refreshed throughout the day.

Awards Ceremony — Every participant is celebrated. The closing ceremony recognizes the courage, joy, and accomplishment of every child who stepped onto the beach that day.

The People Behind the Magic

What makes RAW extraordinary isn't just the surfboards — it's the people. Over 300 active community volunteers show up each season, ranging from grade school kids to senior citizens. The volunteer roster includes firefighters, doctors, nurses, EMTs, lifeguards, pro surfers, marine scientists, real estate agents, teachers, tech professionals, authors, actors, and more.

Many volunteers started coming as children and have continued for decades. It's a community bound by something rare: the shared belief that every child deserves a day that takes their breath away.

RAW's reach extends well beyond Santa Cruz. While rooted in the Bay Area, participants and volunteers have traveled from every U.S. state and from as far away as Canada, Italy, and France to be part of the experience.

Why This Matters

There's a moment that volunteers talk about: the look on a child's face when the wave catches them and they ride it — even just for a second. Some kids come to camp non-verbal and leave saying one word: surf.

Parents have called it the best day of their child's life. Volunteers call it the most rewarding thing they've ever done. And children? They simply glow.

RAW breaks down barriers. It opens up experiences that too many children are told aren't for them — and then proves, splashily and joyfully, that they are.

How to Get Involved

For Families: If you have a child with disabilities who you'd like to register for a RAW camp, visit rideawave.org/raw-camps to join the camp waiting list.

For Volunteers: You don't need to know how to surf to make a life-changing difference. RAW trains all volunteers and will find the perfect role for you — on the beach, in the water, or supporting from the shore. Sign up at rideawave.org/volunteer.

For Donors & Sponsors: RAW is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded entirely through donations, grants, and sponsorships. Your support directly enables more children to experience a day they'll never forget. Contribute at rideawave.org/donate.

For Questions: Email the team at [email protected]

Be There on June 20

Cowell Beach on a RAW camp morning is something to see. The beach fills with color, laughter, and the sound of waves meeting the shouts of kids who are doing something they never thought they'd do. It's not just a beach day — it's proof of what a community can do when it chooses to show up for its most vulnerable members.

Julie's Camp #2 is this Saturday, June 20, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Cowell Beach, Santa Cruz.

Come watch. Come volunteer. Come cheer. Or simply come to be part of something that reminds you what community is all about.

The waves are waiting — and so are the kids.

For more information, visit rideawave.org or email [email protected]. Ride a Wave Foundation, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.