Surf and Turf Therapy: Company Profile

Background

Mission Statement: Committed to bettering lives through nontraditional therapeutic activities, including surfing and horseback riding.

Overview: Founded in 2018 by Dr. Jillian Stewart, Surf and Turf Therapy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing physical, occupational, and speech therapy services to individuals with disabilities. The organization employs innovative approaches, such as surfing and horseback riding, to address traditional therapeutic goals. These unique methods aim to improve strength, stability, body awareness, coordination, safety awareness, tone management, flexibility, attention, and sensory integration. The primary focus is on enhancing daily life skills, including walking, postural alignment, speaking, and writing, rather than solely teaching surfing or riding techniques. Family members and friends are encouraged to participate in therapy sessions, fostering an environment of fun, functionality, and inclusion.

Industry Significance: Surf and Turf Therapy stands out in the therapeutic services industry by integrating nontraditional activities into treatment plans. This approach not only diversifies therapeutic options but also provides engaging and effective methods for individuals with disabilities to achieve functional goals.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives:

• Inclusive Therapy: Offer accessible therapeutic services to individuals with disabilities, regardless of their ability to pay.

• Community Engagement: Involve family members and friends in therapy sessions to promote a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Program Expansion: Increase the availability of surf and horseback riding therapy sessions to meet growing community demand.

Areas of Specialization:

• Surf Therapy: Utilizing surfing as a therapeutic tool to enhance physical and mental well-being.

• Hippotherapy: Employing horseback riding to address various therapeutic goals, including balance, coordination, and strength.

Key Technologies Utilized:

• Adaptive Equipment: Specialized surfboards and riding gear tailored for individuals with disabilities.

• Therapeutic Techniques: Evidence-based methods integrating surfing and horseback riding into treatment plans.

Primary Markets Targeted:

• Individuals with Disabilities: Providing therapeutic services to people of all ages with various disabilities.

• Families and Caregivers: Engaging family members and friends in the therapeutic process to enhance support systems.

Financials and Funding

Funding History:

• Total Funds Raised: Specific figures are not publicly disclosed.

• Recent Funding Rounds: Details on recent funding rounds are not publicly available.

• Notable Investors: As a nonprofit organization, Surf and Turf Therapy relies on donations, grants, and community support rather than traditional investors.

Utilization of Capital:

• Program Expansion: Funds are allocated to increase the capacity of surf and horseback riding therapy sessions to accommodate the growing demand.

• Operational Support: Financial resources support the hiring of additional staff, including therapists and administrative personnel, to enhance service delivery.

• Community Outreach: Investments are made in outreach programs to raise awareness and engage more individuals in therapeutic activities.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs:

• Surf Program: Combines elements of aquatic therapy with surfing to address physical and mental health goals.

• Turf Program: Utilizes horseback riding (hippotherapy) to improve balance, coordination, and strength.

Stages of Development:

• Program Maturity: Both programs have been operational since 2018, with ongoing development to refine therapeutic techniques and expand offerings.

Target Conditions:

• Physical Disabilities: Addressing mobility issues, balance disorders, and strength deficits.

• Developmental Disabilities: Supporting individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental conditions.

• Mental Health Conditions: Providing therapeutic interventions for anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

Anticipated Milestones:

• Program Expansion: Plans to increase the number of therapy sessions and introduce new activities based on community interest.

• Community Integration: Developing additional community-based opportunities, such as rock climbing, aquatic therapy, and dance classes.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies:

• Adaptive Surfboards: Custom-designed boards to ensure safety and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

• Equine Therapy Equipment: Specialized saddles and riding gear tailored for therapeutic use.

Significant Scientific Methods:

• Therapeutic Riding Techniques: Evidence-based methods integrating horseback riding into physical and occupational therapy.

• Aquatic Therapy Protocols: Structured programs combining surfing with therapeutic exercises to achieve functional goals.

Leadership Team

Executive Director:

• Dr. Jillian Stewart, PT, DPT, HPCS: Founder and Executive Director with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University. Certified in Hippotherapy and a registered instructor with PATH International. Over 25 years of experience in equestrian activities and over a decade in surfing. Passionate about integrating nontraditional therapies into treatment plans.

Board Members:

• Danica Ezor: Stay-at-home mom and former senior social worker with the County of Orange, Department of Children and Family Services. Active in the equestrian community and local youth sports.

• Danielle Ouellette (Vice Chair): Wealth management professional with a Master’s in Public Administration. Founding board member and Laguna Beach resident.

• Shawna Moznett: Small business owner with extensive experience in event management and fundraising. Advocate for equine therapy and community service.