The public is invited to hear an inspiring story of determination, faith and hope as the Ocean City Tabernacle presents a special evening with Soul Surfer Bethany Hamilton.
The fundraising event takes place 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at the Flanders Hotel (at 11th Street and Boardwalk). All proceeds from this event benefit the Son Club, the Ocean City Tabernacle’s important after-school program for Ocean City families.
“One hundred percent of every ticket purchase goes directly to benefit the more than 200 children in the Ocean City community who attend the Son Club after school program,” said Kristin Bender, interim director of programs and operations for the Ocean City Tabernacle.
Filling a critical need, the Son Club is a free program that provides after-school tutoring, snacks, Bible lessons, games, enrichment and life skills for local students in kindergarten through 8th grade. See a great video on what the Son Club is all about.
“One consequence of the nation’s economic struggle is the toll it has taken on kids during the critical hours after school,” Bender said. “Studies show that after-school programs like Son Club keep kids safe, improve academic performance, promote student well-being, and help strengthen communities.”
There are not many people who don’t know about Bethany Hamilton and her amazing story. On the morning of Oct. 31, 2003, the 13-year-old aspiring competitive surfer lost her arm in an attack from a 14-foot tiger shark while she was surfing on her home island of Kauai. Less than one month later, she was back on her surfboard. Just over a year later, she won her first national title. And in 2007, she realized her dream of surfing professionally.
Now a wife and mother, Bethany Hamilton shares her astonishing story, inspiring millions with her amazing determination and attitude. Event attendees will hear her moving life story, enjoy dinner, live music and a silent auction that includes items signed by Bethany. Special VIP tickets allow guests to meet Bethany and have their photo taken with her.
Tickets to a special evening with Soul Surfer Bethany Hamilton are $150 per person and available beginning Sept. 10. VIP sponsorship packages including meet-and-greet passes are also available. To purchase tickets, call 609-399-1915, visit octabernacle.org or email contact@octabernacle.org.
— News release from the Ocean City Tabernacle
