Provided by Operation Open Water
 

 
Operation Open Water is dedicated to the health and wellness of every First Responder and Veteran through unique training programs, fellowship, and open water experiences. Our programs are specifically designed to support those who protect our community and our country.

 

Our Impact

Being in nature, physical activity, service work, nutrition, learning new things, and positive connections with others all have proven to positively impact mental health.

OpenWater begins with the simple invitation to get in the water through our social paddle events, designed to provide a low pressure environment to connect with members of the paddle community and with nature.
 

 
Beyond social opportunities there are active mentorship opportunities which include retreats, training, and completing a channel crossing.
 

How to get involved

All are welcome to become a part of OpenWater through our social paddle events, community outreach events, and volunteer opportunities. The first step is to show up and get to know us–there are many avenues to participate and contribute from there. Our unique training programs are offered at no cost for First Responders, Military, Veterans, and their families.
 

What you can do as a community member

People on the outside of the job are just as important to the mission. It is the community who can rally support for local service personnel through education and communication. Community volunteers are a vital part of the fellowship, fundraising, and success of our programs.
 

What you can do as a First Responder/Veteran

If you are interested in any of our programs, please contact us via the SUPPORT page on our website and consider joining us for one of our social events.
 

What you can do as a family member

OpenWater has programs for family members too! Please contact us and consider joining us for one of our social events.
 

Key Events

Our biggest community event of the year is the 9/11 Honor Challenge (Huntington Beach High School every September). This physical challenge was designed by Open Water with the purpose and intention to honor the people who lost their lives during the attacks on September 11, 2001.