This past Labor Day, the Charleston Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation hosted an incredible End of Summer Wellness and Beach Sweep at Folly Beach, bringing together 150 passionate volunteers to give back to our beloved coastline! With the dual focus of promoting wellness and environmental stewardship, the event was an inspiring way to wrap up the summer.
Volunteers were invited to kickstart their day with a choice of rejuvenating activities. Whether it was a yoga session led by The Flow Co., a run with Let’s Run CHS, or a paddle out on the ocean with local surf group She's on Edge, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
After getting moving, the group united to clean up Folly Beach. Charleston Chapter Chair, Zach Watkin, reflected on the energizing morning, "While we were focused on removing trash from the beaches, we really wanted to focus on building the community and educating them around pollution, namely plastic pollution, on our local beaches." Armed with trash bags and a shared passion for environmental conservation, the volunteers, alongside CHS Surfrider and the Coastal Conservation League, worked together to remove debris and litter.
The event wasn’t just about wellness and cleanup—it was about fostering a sense of community. Participants left with a deeper connection to each other and to their local beach. The vibe was one of positivity, balance, and care for both self and nature, as yoga mats, running shoes, and surfboards converged on the sandy shores.
Charleston’s Surfrider Chapter continues to champion initiatives that blend wellness with environmental action, and this Labor Day Beach Sweep was a perfect reflection of that mission. Stay tuned as they will be returning with a similar event - this time focused on plastic pellet pollution in Downtown Charleston - on Saturday, October 12.
Thanks to everyone who came out to support!
You can get involved with the Charleston Chapter by following them on Instagram @charlestonsurfrider or visiting their website.