Veterans Launch Indoor Surfing Program At American Dream Mall To Combat Military Suicide
Inside the largest indoor wave pool in America at New Jersey’s American Dream Mall, the AlphaWave Project kicked off its first veteran surfing program on Jan. 11, 2025. The veterans…
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 27: A surfer at Bondi Beach on November 27, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. Australians are at risk of enduring rolling blackouts this week, amid a heatwave sweeping through NSW and unexpected coal outages across the state. A severe heatwave warning has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for parts of eastern NSW over the next few days – with the mercury tipped to soar into the high 30s in some regions. Some areas reached a maximum temperature of 37C on Monday, with Richmond and Perth in Sydney’s west also clocking in at 35C.
(Photo by Brook Mitchell/Getty Images)Inside the largest indoor wave pool in America at New Jersey's American Dream Mall, the AlphaWave Project kicked off its first veteran surfing program on Jan. 11, 2025. The veterans behind this nonprofit want to reduce military suicide rates by bringing people together. They chose indoor surfing because studies show it helps improve mental health. The wave pool was packed with surfers, from beginners to experienced riders. Given the huge response, more sessions are planned across New Jersey shortly.
Kyle Rodgers heads up the program. He explains that surfing gets people away from their screens and into movement. With heated water available year-round, people can ride waves no matter the weather or experience level. “We want to serve the veteran and first responder community through providing connections and meaningful experiences for them,” said President/CEO Kelly Grunke to News12 New Jersey. “I think that's where the magic happens, is making those connections with all these people.”
The U.S. government fights military suicide through various programs. The VA's suicide prevention center explores solutions using public health approaches. Meanwhile, in Colorado, scientists are testing new ways to help veterans' mental health. In 2019, PREVENTS was created as a dedicated task force. It connects different organizations to create support systems for veterans in crisis.
Together, the VA and Defense Department created Virtual Hope Box, an app offering immediate crisis support. It puts help directly at veterans' fingertips. SAMHSA helps local and state organizations with proven strategies. These groups then deliver mental health services directly to military families. Through targeted programs, cities and states develop local suicide prevention strategies. They implement methods proven to prevent deaths.
This wave pool initiative adds a fresh approach. Combining physical activity with social connection aims to build lasting bonds between veterans who've served.
