About The OisF Foundation

 

Born out of a simple love of the ocean, and a deep-rooted respect and gratitude for the power that she holds to help strengthen and heal us, The OisF Foundation ("The OisF" short for The Ocean Is Female) is an approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of abuse and building a community united in preventing abuse and empowering survivors.

The OisF is more than a platform for conversation - it’s a movement to raise awareness about the prevalence of abuse and to break the silence and stigma surrounding it. Through our advocacy work, we create spaces where survivors - and all women and girls - can be seen, heard, and supported.

BUT....The OisF is unique in our approach to tackling this issue.  While many organizations focus on EITHER prevention or intervention (the before OR the after), The OisF and our mission is about tackling BOTH sides of this public health issue. We heal and we empower.

• We are HEALING through The OisF Gliders - Women’s Surf Collective, a surfing sisterhood for women who have experienced abuse. This is the first surf therapy program in the USA developed specifically for survivors of abuse, offering instructor-led surf experiences and blue-minded activities and gatherings year-round that create a supportive space for women to reconnect with themselves, rise beyond past trauma, and find true belonging and community.

AND....

• We are EMPOWERING through The OisF Riders - Girls Surf Collective, a surf-inspired, preventative program in New Jersey. Through ocean-centered events, beach activities, and community service, girls grow in confidence, discover their inner strength, and become ripples of good - supported by a community of peers who lift each other up as they learn to ride life’s waves.  (And while The OisF Riders - Girls Surf Collective is open to all girls, this program helps fund our Surf & Swim Sponsorships for Children, giving boys and girls who have experienced abuse or been exposed to domestic violence the opportunity to attend surf or swim camp in the summer at no cost - creating moments of healing, joy, and a safe connection to the ocean.)

At The OisF, we believe the ocean has the power to transform. Whether you are healing, growing, or inspiring others, you are part of a community that lifts each other up and creates waves of change.

To learn more about abuse, to find resources for those experiencing abuse, or to discover more about the healing powers of the ocean, please visit our Resources Page.