When the COVID-19 shut-downs started, Manatee High student Ayden Bassett was looking for a fun way to get off the couch and enjoy time outdoors while still staying socially distant. His step-father, Kevin Greer, a long-time surfer who grew up in Northern California, pulled out one of his old surfboards. He and Ayden repaired and refurbished it and he and his friends starting hitting the waves.

A few other kids wanted to join in but couldn’t afford the $300 it costs to buy a used surfboard. That’s when Kevin and Ayden came up with the idea of fixing up old, broken boards and giving them away. They started with Kevin’s stash of old boards. Then, interest grew and the idea really started to take off.

Now the pair takes donated boards, refurbishes them, gives them a new paint job, and donates them to kids who want to learn how to surf. They’ll also teach surfing basics to beginners, making sure they know how to enjoy the sport safely before handing over the board.

Their mission is starting to make waves! If they can get enough donations, they’re hoping to give five to ten more boards away before Christmas. This is such a great activity for kids to get involved in. It gives them the opportunity to get outdoors, get active, and learn a skill they can continue to develop for the rest of their lives.

Kids with Boards AMI is a nonprofit that relies purely on donations. If you or someone you know has old boards, they would love to take them off your hands! You can also support their mission by making a monetary donation. They’re currently working towards a goal of raising $1,000 for their holiday giveaways.

Also, make sure you follow their Facebook page to keep up with all the latest news and updates! If you reach out to them, be sure to tell them you heard about it on Discover Bradenton!