Mornings on the Washington coast begin with fog clinging to the trees and cool waves rolling in with steady rhythm. Along the shoreline, something remarkable takes shape. Families and volunteers gather as children pull on wetsuits and carry surfboards toward the water. The air hums with anticipation, soon, the Pacific will welcome its newest surfers.
This is where Warm Current, in collaboration with the Makah Indian Nation, Quileute Nation, Hoh Indian Tribe, and Quinault Indian Nation, hosts surf camps designed for Native youth. But these camps are about far more than learning to ride a wave. These camps not only teach young people how to surf, they invite Native youth to connect with their ancestral waters, and promote the benefits of outdoor recreation in their own communities.
Through beachside laughter, shared meals, and the simple act of trying something new, these camps foster more than recreation. They offer space for confidence to grow, for joy to surface, and for a deeper relationship with land, sea, and self to take root.
“Water is a pillar of the Makah Nation,” says Natalie Maxson, Warm Current Board Member and Member of the Makah Tribe. “Canoeing, sailing, and fishing have long been part of our traditions, and now, surfing is too.” This growing connection to surfing reflects a broader movement to reclaim and redefine traditions in ways that resonate with the next generation.
Through surfing, Native youth strengthen their bond with the ocean and deepen their respect for the waters that have sustained their people for centuries.
Warm Current: Surf Camps Building Confidence & Care | ORG In Action
From volunteer surf instructors and lifeguards preparing safety training, to kids catching their very first waves, Warm Current’s two-day surf camps are designed to build confidence, connection, and joy.
Surfing, for many, becomes a source of empowerment. “When I’m in the water, it’s like nothing else matters,” says Stephanie Terrell, Warm Current Board Member and member of the Quinault Tribe. “Water is cleansing and powerful.” Terrell began volunteering with Warm Current during a challenging time in her community. “Quinault kids face a lot of things other kids don’t. Warm Current gives them a chance to try something new and build confidence.” Inspired by her experience as a volunteer, she later joined the board to help guide the organization’s future.
Inclusivity is at the heart of Warm Current’s mission. “Everybody and anybody can surf,” says Terrell. No matter your experience level, whether you’re a seasoned surfer or stepping into the ocean for the first time, everyone is welcome. Warm Current removes barriers by providing all the necessary gear and instruction, ensuring access for all who want to participate. Volunteer surf instructors meet each participant where they are, offering encouragement and support. As volunteer Andrea Hidalgo puts it, “Some kids catch waves, others are just happy to be in the water, but the smiles say it all.”
Beyond surfing, Warm Current is continuously evolving their programs and curriculum to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Alongside safe surfing practices, they host beach clean ups and teach beach stewardship which educates Native youth on the importance and connection of the coastal ecosystems and the impact human’s actions can have on it.
To support long-term success, Warm Current creates Surf Outposts on tribal lands – small, fully stocked buildings with boards, wetsuits, safety gear, and guidance on how and where to surf safely. These outposts remain in the community, offering continued opportunities for exploration, recreation, and connection.
As for the future of Warm Current, Maxson says, “I’d love to see us expand to serve more tribes and build more outposts, so surfing becomes even more accessible year-round.”
Volunteers are a key component of Warm Current, from leading surf lessons and lifeguarding, to shaping strategy as board members. This .ORG is driven entirely by those who care deeply about its mission and want to share the joy of the ocean.
You can be part of the impact by volunteering, donating, or sharing Warm Current’s mission with your community. Every contribution helps bring more youth to the water.
To learn more about Warm Current and to get involved visit, www.warmcurrent.org
