CELEBRATING MATT HUFFMAN

We are proud to celebrate an outstanding accomplishment by Matt Huffman, who was recently recognized by the Veterans Surf Alliance (VSA) with the Blue Water Award (Game Changer of the Year). This award honors individuals whose innovative ideas and initiatives have significantly strengthened the organization’s operations and overall impact.

The Veterans Surf Alliance is a Santa Cruz-based nonprofit that creates fellowship and community among veterans through surfing, helping ease the transition from military service to civilian life. The organization provides mentorship, surf instruction, equipment, and a supportive peer-led community centered on connection, healing, and camaraderie.

Matt received the Blue Water Award alongside Jason Scott in recognition of their work as game changers for the organization. Matt has volunteered as Water Safety Lead for more than a year, helping create an environment where veterans and first responders can feel safe and be safe while participating in VSA programs.

“I’ve volunteered as Water Safety Lead for over one year. The work is important because we want our Veterans and First Responders to feel safe and actually be safe. The VSA provides me with a vibrant community full of interesting personalities and an opportunity to help my brothers and sisters. It’s been a very challenging endeavor to learn to surf and to learn and teach water safety. It’s also been very rewarding. I love the VSA!”
— Matt Huffman

Matt’s recognition reflects both his dedication to service and his meaningful contributions to a mission-driven organization making a difference in the lives of veterans and first responders.

Please join us in congratulating Matt on this well-earned recognition and thanking him for his continued support of the veteran community.