Pockets Full of Sunshine to host annual beach fun day June 3

All who attend Fun in the Sun for Everyone enjoy beach activities and interesting visitors, like this turtle. COURTESY POCKETS FULL OF SUNSHINE

Again this year, Fun in the Sun for Everyone will be held on the beach at Marriott’s Surf Watch – promising inclusive beach activities for people with special needs, their families, and friends. All ages and abilities are invited to join in on the community fun, to be held is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon June 3.

This annual event gives all community members, no matter their age or ability, the opportunity to enjoy the beach in a safe and inclusive setting. Activities will include paddle boarding, boogie boarding, surfing, beach games and relaxation.

Lifeguards and volunteers will be included in the event to ensure a safe environment for all. Adult/caregiver supervision is required for all attendees. Shuttles from the parking lot to the beach will be provided. Beach access is wheelchair accessible.

Fun in the Sun for Everyone has been built off a 2015 Special Needs Surf Day, started by local high school surfer, James Bartholomew, who wanted to provide a fun day of surfing for his sister and her classmates with special needs. The event continues to grow and in 2021, more than 250 people attended.

Pre-Registration is encouraged so participants can request a T-shirt size and sign the event waiver. Volunteers should also register in advance on the website. Visit pocketsfullofsun.org for more information and to register online.

Since 2014, Pockets Full of Sunshine has been working to make the Lowcountry a “sunnier place” by providing social and vocational opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities. PFS programs enhance the lives of exceptional adults (our Rays), by increasing exposure and interactions within our community, and promoting independence, growth, a sense of belonging, and personal pride. Founded by Dayna Dehlinger and Laurin Rivers, partnering with Carol and RJ Bartholomew, PFS has a goal of bridging the gap between general population and individuals with special needs.

Pockets Full of Sunshine was inspired by recycled material from an automotive label company that looks like a small yellow “sunshine.” The sunshines are recycled and re-purposed by adults with disabilities who turn them into greeting cards, gift tags, magnets and stationery.

Funds raised support community-based activities and vocational opportunities, such as screen printing, for adults with special needs. Pockets Full of Sunshine is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.