The OisF Gliders - Women's Surf Collective

The OisF Gliders - Women’s Surf Collective is a surfing sisterhood for survivors of abuse. Inspired by the transformative, healing power of the sea, we are the first surf therapy program in the USA developed specifically for survivors, 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.

APPLY HERE & JOIN US 

What is The OisF Gliders - Women's Surf Collective all about?

We are a year-round, surf-inspired community designed to support women who have experienced abuse and/or domestic violence as they heal, reconnect, and reclaim their strength.

Grounded in the healing power of the ocean and the power of sisterhood, The OisF offers opportunities for connection, restoration, and growth throughout the year. Participants come together in the ocean, which we believe is one of the most powerful natural healing forces. When we surf together, we draw strength from the sea and one another.

When conditions keep us out of the water, we continue through land-based, surf-inspired gatherings near the ocean – creating space for reflection, grounding, and meaningful connection. Whether in the surf, on the sand, or in community, participants are always anchored by the ocean’s presence and supported by a safe, welcoming sisterhood. The stoke is high!

At its core, The OisF is a reminder: you are not alone. Together, we rise above trauma, rebuild confidence, and move forward with courage supported by the sea, sustained by community, and empowered to thrive.

Apply today to join our community and participate in OisF-led gatherings and events throughout the year.

Who are The Gliders ?

The Gliders are women, ages 18 and older, who have experienced abuse or been exposed to domestic violence. All women who feel this space is right for them are welcome and encouraged to apply.  Please apply here. Applications are considered on a rolling basis. 

Does The OisF provide mental health therapy?

No. The OisF believes in the many healing benefits of the sea and in the community of women that we are building. However, The OisF does not provide not therapy, nor should The Gliders - Women's Surf Collective be a substitute for professional counseling or mental health services.  Our activities are designed to foster healing, confidence, and connection, they are not run by licensed therapists nor do they involve licensed therapy or clinical treatment. We encourage participants to seek support from qualified mental health professionals if they need therapeutic care.  Should you be in need of any recommendations for mental health providers or other counseling services in the area, please visit our Resources page at TheOisF.org. 

What is the cost? 

There is no cost to be a part of The OisF Gliders - Women's Surf Collective.  Your participation is funded by The OisF.                                                                                                

     
What guides our ocean-centered approach?
       
Life after abuse is a journey of rediscovery. Empowerment is the first step, giving survivors the courage to rediscover who they are and embrace the healing that leads to a new beginning.  Empowerment begins with self-awareness – the reclaiming of one’s identity and voice, and the recognition that that strength already exists within.  But awareness alone is not enough. Survivors also need support: tools, resources, and safe spaces to integrate healing into daily life. Surfing provides opportunities to experience empowerment in action – through movement, connection, and somatic practices that strengthen mind, body, and spirit.
       
The Ocean Is Female is a year-round, surf-inspired program and thriving community for women who are survivors of abuse and domestic violence. The ocean is both our starting point and our symbol: powerful, ever-changing, and deeply healing – the one thing connecting us all. Like the ocean, women are resilient, spirited, and of unlimited potential; together, we harness that power to support and uplift one another. The Ocean Is Female is a metaphor for the strong and colorful community of women we’re growing together.
      
Surf therapy and ocean-based practices are central to this work, helping participants reconnect with their bodies, move out of their heads, and engage in somatic healing – releasing trauma, fostering presence, and integrating mind, body, and spirit. Guided by the ocean, inspired by surf, and anchored in the sacred bond of sisterhood, our program provides a community where women heal, grow, and thrive together.

 


We are Raising Awareness ...We are Empowering ...We are Healing

Testimonials


In addition to the testimonials below, click here to read some extremely moving letters written by women who participated in The OisF Survivor Program for Women last summer.

  • This program was a much appreciated step on my journey to healing. The instructors were so kind and patient. Getting in the water each session was fun as well as therapeutic. I cannot ever thank the OisF enough for allowing me to be a part of this program and will forever be grateful I was a part of it.
  • The OisF is a place to heal a place to grow and a place to develop a sense of empowerment as a women as we ride the waves of life!!
  • I have learned and gained so much from this experience. Learning how to surf and actually surfing was an inexplainable healing experience. I am so grateful to the team for creating such a safe and enjoyable place to heal and grow.
  • This program was incredible. I enjoyed every minute and would love to join again next year. It gave me so much support, skills and empowerment for my life.
  • I loved the program. Getting to be in the water and also learn new life skills was amazing. It was much more than I expected and would participate again without a doubt.
  • I did not have any expectations for the group and was curious about what it would be like. I can’t tell you how much I have learned and grew from this experience. I would definitely be intersted in joining the program next year it would mean so much to me as support in my life is so much needed at this stage of healing.






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