Team USA surfer Griffin Colapinto is eagerly anticipating his Olympic debut while simultaneously making a substantial impact on his community as an Olympian. He has been recognized by Athletes for Good for his efforts in improving his community and has chosen to donate the $24,000 grant to the nonprofit To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA), which supports mental health awareness and assistance.
Team USA surfer Griffin Colapinto is eagerly anticipating his Olympic debut while simultaneously making a substantial impact on his community as an Olympian. He has been recognized by Athletes for Good for his efforts in improving his community and has chosen to donate the $24,000 grant to the nonprofit To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA), which supports mental health awareness and assistance.
Colapinto's connection to TWLOHA stems from his and his brother Crosby's personal mental health journey throughout their professional surfing careers. They recognized the importance of mental health and began journaling as a technique to clear their minds before and after events. The "Cola Bros," as they are affectionately known, then began selling these journals to fans, with the proceeds being donated to TWLOHA.
Surfer Griffin Colapinto's Olympic Dream and Community Impact
"I started getting real interested in mental health through surfing, obviously, and being a pro surfer," Colapinto explained. "Just chasing a dream, chasing something that’s so challenging, you’re going to be dealt with hard moments throughout the journey. Through that, I started journaling, meditating and reading books. I ended up kinda just creating my own little system of tools to help me on my journey, and the journaling was a really cool one."
Colapinto's passion for mental health extends beyond his own personal journey. He has been involved in TWLOHA's "Between the Bells" program, a one-week interactive program that is provided free for students to help them spark authentic conversations about mental health. He was able to speak with kids during an installment of the program and was impressed with the organization's efforts.
Surfer Griffin Colapinto's Olympic Dream and Community Impact
"Super rad," he said smiling. "Each kid had a pamphlet, and on the pamphlet there’s all these different categories of questions to ask yourself, like how you’re feeling. Little things in your life like, ‘Did you brush your teeth this morning? Did you make your bed?’ All these little things you ask yourself that kinda contribute to having a good, clear mind every day. “Those simple little tools, those simple steps, if you don’t have the parents that taught you those, then it's organizations like this that are there to take care of that for you.”
Colapinto believes that mental health is paramount for everyone, regardless of their profession. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing challenging thoughts and emotions and seeking help when necessary. For him, journaling and talking to a counselor have been invaluable tools in maintaining a clear mind.
Surfer Griffin Colapinto's Olympic Dream and Community Impact
"I think one of the biggest things for freeing your mind is recognizing whatever thought it is that is challenging you," he said. "Sometimes you get a thought or emotion that just keeps looping in your head and body. Through journaling, or through talking to someone like a counselor, you can get yourself to recognize that, and that’s half the battle. Once you see it, it’s easier to let it go. Then, boom, you’re free."
Colapinto's journey to the Olympics is not only about athletic achievement but also about using his platform to inspire others and support important causes. His partnership with TWLOHA and his advocacy for mental health awareness demonstrate his commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the competition field.
