Camp WAVES (formerly Learning through Sun, Sand, and SURF) was established in 2009 to support the social, emotional, and sensory-motor needs of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Since 2009, the camp has been supported by many local businesses and individuals who have contributed to fundraising efforts in order to limit costs for families and volunteers.

The two-day camp experience includes surfing, arts and crafts, sandcastle building, beach games, and numerous opportunities to learn and practice social skills. Surf camp volunteers include teachers, administrators, psychologists, diagnosticians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, adapted physical education teachers, speech therapists, college professors, and university students.

Hello! My name is Zooey Cooley. I’m a Girl Scout working on my Gold Award. I’m fifteen years old and a sophomore at Argyle High School. I’ve been a Girl Scout since I was seven years old. 

Last May, my grandfather died from melanoma. I would like my Girl Scott Gold Award to support skincare awareness and thought of paddleboarding because it’s an outside activity where the skin is exposed. I’m excited to be able to incorporate my Gold Award with Bluet Sup and raise awareness about skin cancer. 

Learning that this cancer is caused by unprotected exposure to the sun for long periods of time should inspire people to take precautions. It is scary that there is no cure for Melanoma, that’s why prevention at a young age is imperative.

I love to be outside like my grandfather playing tennis and swimming. I make sure that I have plenty of sunscreen when I’m outside.  I hope my story will inspire you to take care of your skin forever. If you’ve lost someone you love, I wish you peace in the beautiful memories you shared.