Kevin at work
Grand Estates Auction is pleased to announce its support of Ocean Cure, a non-profit organization dedicated to giving free surf lessons to medically fragile and at risk youth and adults. GEA became aware of Ocean Cure from our outstanding Client Relations Specialist, Kyle Whelan. Ocean Cure is a family run organization with Kyle’s brother-in-law, Kevin Murphy, serving as founder and president of the organization. Kyle’s entire family takes part in helping with fundraising and events and now, Grand Estates is stepping up to support this great cause.
Kyle Whelan as a volunteer with Ocean Cure
Kyle says, “My family got involved after my sister, Danielle, began dating Kevin.” Soon, Danielle and Kevin were married and our whole family joined the cause.” Although they strive to promote surfing in a positive way to all those who can benefit, they focus their energies on those who have a disability.
Kyle’s favorite event, Life Rolls On, is the biggest event of the year for Ocean Cure and caters to helping all people with spinal cord injury experience the excitement of the surf. The event, which takes place each summer, includes an after party fundraiser to conclude an entire weekend of activities.
Ocean Cure believes very strongly in the powerful emotional and physical healing properties of the ocean and surfing. Highly qualified instructors guide participants through their fear and apprehension around an activity that they otherwise thought impossible. Through surfing, they are empowered to feel that there is no obstacle that they cannot overcome. The benefits of this confidence extend beyond their personal experience as the participants get to know and bond with other participating families.
Although Kyle lives in Charlotte, he travels to the coast as much as he can to help with the non-profit. He has helped in many capacities including photographing, registering participants, helping with fundraisers, setup and assisting in the water.
Every year they break the record for number of volunteers and participants. The goal is to keep growing the event so that they reach more people and to show them that they can overcome any challenge.
Ocean Cure utilizes specialized equipment to enable participants to surf. They have been lucky enough to attract several sponsors and to be awarded a grant from General Electric to help fund this effort. In addition, Ocean Cure hosts several fundraising events that have been immensely fun and popular. The next event will take place at Saint’s Cove Beach Bar and Grill in Carolina Beach, NC on February 7th where they will raffle a Jet Ski!
Check out this great organization on their Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/OceanCure/timeline?
