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During November, Valpo Surf Project was invited to Washington, DC to attend the .ORG Impact Awards (OIA) as a finalist in their Community Building category.
The OIAs are hosted by the Public Interest Registry, the organization behind the .org URLs, and recognize outstanding mission-driven individuals and organizations from around the world for their positive contributions to society. VSP was one of 35 organizations and individuals selected as finalists from almost 1,000 applications from more than 70 countries.
The awards were hosted by Padma Lakshmi, activist, actress, philanthropist, author, and host and producer of Hulu's "Taste the Nation".
It was incredible to be recognized by the .ORG Impact Awards and PIR for the community we have created in Valparaíso. VSP started with 25 kids from one neighborhood, a few surfboards, and borrowed vans to transport students to the beach. Over the past 13 years, we have grown to include five different student populations, work with over 1,000 kids, and create a community that many describe as a family. As we approach 2024, we are primed to reach more kids than ever through school and city partnerships. With the support of OIA and our wonderful donors, volunteers, and staff, we hope to grow our community to include thousands of kids in the years to come.
Wiley Todd (left, CEO and Founder of VSP) and Abby McLagan (right, Development Coordinator) arriving at the .ORG Impact Awards.
Wiley Todd (Founder & CEO) and Abby McLagan (Development Coordinator) were able to attend the awards in person on behalf of the organization. We met some amazing organizations and people doing really important work around the globe. Congratulations to all the winners, we are inspired by your work and impact. Many thanks to PIR for hosting this wonderful event and hope to be back next year.