Glow Paddle, Hawaii – Federal firefighter Justin Lee brought the concept of glow paddling to Hawaii and contacted Creative Connections Foundation who are an organisation that work with children with special needs including those with autism.
Director Gaby Toloza says that glow paddling is perfect for a child living with autism:
“Water for kids with autism is a very rewarding tool and therapeutic medium for them, so to get to go in the water at night and see what’s happening, it’s like all their favorite things in one place,”
Malia Beter of Glow Paddle said that glow paddling is like regular stand up boarding but that LED lights are placed underneath the board so as to illuminate the ocean floor. She added:
“create an experience in a typical environment, enjoying the beaches of Hawaii, getting out in the night time. Things that most kids get to do all the time, these kids often times don’t have these opportunities.”
Glow Paddle has organized a special event for Creative Connections on Friday, May 30, where more than 30 children with autism will get the chance to enjoy Ala Moana Beach Park at night.
The event will start with a beach cleanup followed by a Friday night paddle and the Waikiki fireworks show. They are reaching out for volunteers for the event.
To find out more about volunteering with Creative Connections Foundation click here
The full article by Ron Mizutani on the khon2 website can be found here