Beyond Grateful - Part 1: City Surf Project
We just wrapped up our 4th Swing for String Charity Golf Tournament which marks the completion of our most successful fundraising season to date, which raised nearly $45,000 for our Grants Program.
I am so grateful to our team members for all the hard work and planning they put in to hosting the fundraisers, and the generosity of our donors, friends, sponsors, local businesses, and volunteers, whom without, the important work we do at Red String would not be possible.
So where does this money go?
100 percent of all money raised goes directly to fund our Grants Program. Since our beginning in 2020, we have been able to distribute over $325,000 in grants and matching funds to community-based charities working with at-risk youth to improve academic and life outcomes, supporting low-income families toward greater self-sufficiency, and caring for homebound elderly persons.
This is the first in a series of posts showcasing our Grants Program, partner charities, and the impacts our grants are creating in the lives, livelihoods, and communities we invest in.
City Surf Project, San Francisco, CA (Youth Education & Development)
City Surf Project (CSP) has been a Red String charity partner since 2022. Since then, we have distributed nearly $25,000 toward CSP's Summer Camp and Youth Leadership programs.
CSP was founded 11 years ago by Johnny Irwin and Hunter Chiles to give Bay Area public school youth the opportunity through the art of surfing to gain greater sense of self-worth; become more aware of possibilities and opportunities in their lives; and set and attain goals for their personal, academic, and professional futures.
We saw the potential at the heart of CSP’s mission — a positive, deeply meaningful way to connect with underserved youth beyond the traditional classroom. For many participants, who have never been to the ocean, let alone surfed, CSP opens the door to an entirely new experience. As they learn to ride waves, they also learn resilience, teamwork, leadership, and how to face their fears and challenges with confidence.
Our 2026 grant helped sponsor 12 high school interns and an incredible 143 summer campers!
"We had a really wonderful summer season, partnering with five community-based organizations to provide summer surf camps to young people, primarily elementary and middle school students. For many of these students, this was their first time in the ocean." says Irwin. “We had 100% retention, even from the youth who were hesitant on the first day, and they ended up having an amazing time.”
For many of the participants, this experience is lifechanging. 100% said the program helped them have a better sense of their personal strengths and what they can contribute, and 96% of students said they feel a closer, more supportive connection to their peers.
At Red String, we believe learning extends far beyond academics. It’s about growing as a person — discovering one’s passions, practicing respect every day, embracing empathy toward others, and carrying oneself with honor and courage.
CSP embodies that belief — a proven example of learning through experience, character, and community. It’s one of the many reasons we’re proud to support them.
(to be continued)
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