The annual Fun in the Sun event started by local waterman James Bartholomew continues to offer a great day for our community.

“Fun in the Sun for EVERYONE” is scheduled for Saturday, September 11th from 9 am to Noon and includes beach activities for people with special needs, their families, and friends. All ages and abilities are invited to join in on the community fun!

This annual event gives all community members, no matter their age or ability, the opportunity to enjoy the beach in a safe and inclusive setting. Activities will include: paddle boarding, boogie boarding, surfing, beach games and relaxation. Lifeguards and volunteers will be included in the event to ensure a safe environment for all. Adult/caregiver supervision is required for all attendees. Shuttles from the parking lot to the beach will be provided. Beach access is wheelchair accessible.

“Fun in the Sun for EVERYONE” has been built off a 2015 Special Needs Surf Day, started by local high school surfer, James Bartholomew, who wanted to provide a fun day of surfing for his sister and her classmates with special needs. Through the years, James continued to help organize the event, which hosted over 250 people in 2019. This year, James is unable to attend because he will be playing football at the University of South Carolina, but the legacy he started will continue.

From its early beginnings to its most recent success, Fun in the Sun is an exciting event that has touched hundreds.

In 2020, the Fun in the Sun event was cancelled due to COVID-19, but Pockets Full of Sunshine was able to partner with Forest Beach Surf to provide an opportunity for the “Rays” to enjoy the water, despite a pandemic!

Pre-Registration is encouraged so participants can request a t-shirt size and sign the event waiver. Volunteers should also register in advance on the website. Visit www.pocketsfullofsun.org for more information, T-shirt sponsorships,and to register on line.

About Pockets Full of Sunshine: Since 2014, Pockets Full of Sunshine has been working to make the Lowcountry a “sunnier place” by providing social and vocational opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities. PFS programs enhance the lives of exceptional adults (“Rays”), by increasing exposure and interactions within our community; promoting independence, growth, a sense of belonging, and personal pride. Founded by Dayna Dehlinger and Laurin Rivers, partnering with Carol & RJ Bartholomew, PFS has a goal of bridging the gap between general population and individuals with special needs.

Pockets Full of Sunshine was inspired by recycled material from an automotive label company that looks like a small yellow ‘sunshine’.
The ‘sunshines’ are recycled and repurposed by adults with disabilities who turn them into greeting cards, gift tags, magnets and stationery. Funds raised support community based activities and vocational opportunities, such as screen printing, for adults with special needs. Pockets Full of Sunshine is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization.