Bridge to the Beach Program

Autism Tree partners with the San Diego Junior Lifeguards and the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department for Bridge to the Beach, an immersive summer program that gives children with autism and their families the opportunity to spend time at the beach in a safe, structured, and exciting way. The San Diego Junior Lifeguards provide kayaks, boogie boards, paddle boards, and surfboards, as well as lifeguard interns who work with Autism Tree volunteers to provide instruction and assistance for kids of all ages and abilities who want to try out water sports and enjoy the beach. Each Autism Tree child is paired with a Junior Lifeguard or volunteer for all activities.

Autism Tree hosts two Annual Bridge to the Beach Family Beach Days, one in June in Mission Bay and one in August in Mission Beach. In addition, Autism Tree hosts a week-long Bridge to the Beach Camp in mid-July. Since 2015, this program has served 618 children and over 290 families to date!

‍

We are proud for our Autism Tree Bridge to the Beach Program to be featured in "7 Best Summer Camps near San Diego for Kids with Autism" by Beaming Health.

‍

"My 16 year-old daughter with ASD loves the programs." - Julianne Siddle

"My granddaughter Avery Martinez loves all the activities that you provide and enjoys making friends." - Rebecca Martinez