veteran, Military & First Responders exclusive facility | proud va community care network (ccn) provider

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Surf Therapy

Surf Therapy

Our surf therapy program is an epic, life-changing experience for members of our military and veterans.   Bringing our participants directly to our programs within supportive coastal communities and exposing them to the healing power of the ocean.  Progress towards wellness and healing occurs for individuals from all walks of life, and from every background.  Each element of the surf program is designed to introduce new tools and resources for our clients to embrace after discharge from the program.

surftherapy

Founder & Facilitator

Facilitated by Van Curaza, a surfer of 49 years and the founder of Van Curaza Surf School.  Once a professional surfer, Van has dedicated his life to helping others through surfing. His work has been featured in numerous publications, including ESPN and Southwest Airlines Spirit magazine, and has earned him the first annual Blue Mind Award. He has recently been featured in the award-winning Netflix documentary, RESURFACE. Additionally, his work has been featured in the first study of its kind on surfing as an alternative treatment for veterans with PTSD by Dr. Russell Crawford, “The Impact of Ocean Therapy on Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.”

In addition to creating Van Curaza Surf School Van founded the nonprofit Operation Surf (Amazing Surf Adventures) to help at-risk youth, wounded military men and women, and many other individuals in need. Having experienced his own struggles, Van turned to surfing throughout his life as a means to stay positive. With hopes of being of service and passing on this positive experience, he set out to help others.

Admission to Legacy Village​

Legacy Village understands how stressful reaching out for help can be. We are committed to making the admissions process as seamless as possible. Clients are referred to Legacy Village by a Department of Veterans Affairs provider. Clients must be eligible for VA healthcare benefits and must ask their primary care provider for a referral to the Community Care Network.

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