Surf’s Up: Locations Foundation and Surfers Healing Team Up to Support Children with Autism
On a sunny Saturday in November 2024, our Locations Foundation volunteers partnered with the nonprofit organization Surfers Healing in Waikiki to create a morning of fun in the surf for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. This annual event brought together surf instructors, volunteers and families to experience the therapeutic and transformative power of the ocean.
Guided by Locations Realtor and Foundation Advisory Board Member Devin Minardi, a passionate team of volunteers worked tirelessly to make the event a success. From offering encouragement to assisting with event logistics, our volunteers ensured every participant and their family felt welcomed and supported.
“The ocean has a way of bringing people together,” said Devin, a father of two who also enjoys surfing in his spare time. “Seeing these special keiki experience the thrill of surfing was incredibly inspiring—it’s a reminder of how much strength and joy can be found in shared experiences.”
Mahalo to our volunteers: Akiko Morishita, Crystal Chang, Gavin Baer, John Jacobson, Laycee Pasion and Devin Minardi. Their enthusiasm and dedication made the day truly special for everyone involved.
About Surfers Healing
Surfers Healing was established in 1996 by Daniele and Izzy Paskowitz, as a personal mission to help their son, Isaiah, who has autism, discover the calming effects of surfing. Over the years, it has grown into a nationwide movement, offering free surf camps to children with autism across the U.S., as well as in Mexico and Puerto Rico. These camps provide families with a day of celebration, support and a sense of belonging.
According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Events like Surfers Healing camps play a vital role in fostering acceptance and joy for children and their families, creating moments of respite and connection.
The Locations Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to support initiatives that enrich the lives of children and families in Hawaii. Partnering with Surfers Healing is just one way we can help to fulfill our commitment to building a more inclusive and compassionate community.
Through the power of the ocean and the enduring spirit of aloha, the Foundation continues to embrace and celebrate the unique strengths of every child.
Locations Foundation Volunteers Support Community Cleanup in Kakaʻako
On Saturday, April 25, 29 volunteers from across the Locations family participated in the Mālama ʻĀina Community Cleanup in Kakaʻako, joining neighbors and community partners in a shared effort to care for the neighborhood. In about one hour, volunteers worked together to clean approximately 10 blocks across the Kakaʻako neighborhood of Honolulu — from Ala Moana Boulevard to Halekauwila Street — helping keep public spaces clean and welcoming.
Locations Foundation Delivers Holiday Gifts to Local Residents in Need
In December 2025, the Locations Foundation was honored to support three local organizations doing vital work for our community: The Salvation Army Kauluwela Corps, Kahauiki Village and RYSE Hawaii. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our volunteers, we were able to deliver extra holiday joy to local residents in low-income communities.
Locations Foundation Serves up Smiles at Family Programs Hawaii Holiday Party
The Locations Foundation was once again a proud sponsor of Family Programs Hawaii's 27th Annual Holiday Party. On Sunday, December 7, 2025, we joined more than 750 volunteers from 50 companies and organizations at the Neal Blaisdell Center in Honolulu to make holiday magic for 900 children in Oahu’s foster care system.
Locations Foundation Partners With Weed & Seed Hawaii for Heroes & Helpers Holiday Shopping Spree
The Locations Foundation was proud to support Weed & Seed Hawaii with their Heroes & Helpers holiday shopping experience on December 6. This meaningful annual event pairs children in need with community "heroes"—Honolulu Police Department officers and other volunteers— for a special morning of holiday-gift shopping.