Mike has been with AccesSurf through many years and is one of those guys we often find ourselves saying, "Can Mike come?!" or "I hope Mike can make it!" When we see his name on our volunteer registration, the staff can take a sigh of relief, knowing our participants will be in good hands. Let's hear some words from Mike himself:
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Michael Walker. I was born a water baby and was taught to swim when I was 6 months old. I grew up in Fort Walton Beach Florida, schooled the University of Florida, and moved to Haleakala National park in the year 2000. I am a fan of surfing in all it’s forms (short board, standup paddle, body surf, tandem bully board to name a few!) and am an avid mountain biker, dirt biker, dancer, and lover of native plants.
How and when did you start with Accessurf.
In 2009 I was looking for ways to give back to the community and found Access on a website that had local volunteer opportunities. I always thought surfing was such a selfish activity so being able to share it with others sounded right up my alley!
What does AccesSurf mean to you?
Access to me is a blessing! The ocean has given me so much joy, solace, and healing in my life, having an opportunity to help others experience that with me just makes me smile thinking about it!
Favorite AccesSurf memory?
I’ll never forget what a joy it was to see Buttons surf with folks at AccesSurf. He was such a naturally gifted, graceful surfer and he was always the last one in from the water, never turning down a request to surf with him. Aloha Buttons!
Anything you want to say to our AccesSurf ‘ohana?
You folks are the best! Mahalo nui loa to everyone involved, you bring light and joy to staff, volunteers, and participants alike, it’s most definitely a positive feedback loop that enriches all! Thank you so much for including me in the loop.
