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  1. SCUBA diving has been recognized as a therapeutic activity for veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:
    1. Physical Benefits:
    Improved Cardiovascular Health: SCUBA diving is an aerobic activity that helps improve cardiovascular fitness, leading to better heart health.
    Enhanced Muscle Strength and Flexibility: Moving underwater and carrying diving gear can help strengthen muscles and increase flexibility.
    Low-Impact Exercise: The buoyancy of water reduces the impact on joints, making it a suitable activity for individuals with physical disabilities.
    2. Mental and Emotional Benefits:
    Stress Reduction: Being immersed in water and observing marine life can be calming and help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
    Sense of Freedom: Underwater, individuals with physical disabilities experience freedom of movement not always possible on land.
    Boosted Self-Esteem: Mastering a new skill and achieving underwater exploration can enhance self-confidence and self-esteem.
    Sense of Accomplishment: Overcoming challenges during diving can instill a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.
    Connection with Nature: Interacting with marine life and experiencing the underwater world fosters a sense of wonder and connection with nature.
    3. Social Benefits:
    Camaraderie: Participating in group diving sessions creates opportunities for camaraderie and peer support among veterans and individuals with disabilities.
    Community Engagement: Involvement in SCUBA diving clubs or organizations can lead to a sense of belonging to a supportive community.
    Reduced Isolation: Diving can help combat feelings of isolation.
    4. Sensory Benefits:
    Sensory Stimulation: SCUBA diving engages multiple senses, such as sight, touch, and hearing, offering a unique sensory experience.
    5. Adaptive Opportunities:
    Equipment and Training: Specialized SCUBA diving equipment and training programs are available for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and safety.
    Inclusion: SCUBA diving allows individuals with disabilities to participate in an activity alongside their able-bodied peers, promoting inclusivity and equality.
    6. Cognitive Benefits:
    Improved Focus and Concentration: The need to focus on dive planning, safety, and underwater navigation can improve cognitive functions.
    Problem-Solving Skills: Overcoming challenges underwater can enhance problem-solving skills and mental agility.
    It's essential to note that SCUBA diving should be carried out under the guidance of trained professionals who have experience in adaptive diving techniques and working with individuals with disabilities. Each person's specific needs and capabilities should be taken into consideration to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. Join us and make SCUBA Diving a part of your life and adventures!

  2. Thank you to Scavenger Hunts by Let’s Roam for donating tickets for our silent auction coming up in Dive Into Life 2022 Family Day in the Park. Your support is much appreciated.



    Sponsor spots still available and we are in need of more product/service donations to make the event a success. Can you commit to a donation? If you would like to donate a product or service, please email to serena@adaptivescubaprograms.org or regular mail Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics, Inc. Attn: Serena Barghahn 801 NE 33 Street Oakland Park, FL 33334.





  3. Conducted by veterans of Special Operations Forces from the United States Military, participate in a 36HR overnight operation. Do you have what it takes? Endurance, fortitude, resilience, and grit required to complete the Mission with Honor? 

    Running out of time to register! Don't miss out. Registration Link: 
    SARX Registration

    SOC Veterans supporting Military Veteran disabled community. All proceeds benefit Adaptive SCUBA Programs serving those who have served.

    Get insight from and brain-storm with members of SOF Groups: Army Special Forces, Navy SEALs, Marine Force Reconnaissance, Air Force PJ & CCT & SERE.

    MISSION BBQ HONOR MEAL AT END OF EVENT

    SARX (Search & Rescue Field Training Exercise):

    36HR Event (12NOV2021-13NOV2021 / 0600 hrs - 1800 hrs)

    Introducing the Most Intense Medic Program on the Planet! Ideal for Pre-SOF (Special Operation Forces) Selection. Developed by a Team of Operators.

    This operation involves self-drive, personal integrity, and attention to detail to the specific exercise techniques and equipment preparation while working in a cohesive TEAM to successfully complete the mission.

  4. Many thanks to a wonderful photographer and friend, James Koutoulas for supporting Adaptive SCUBA Programs with the sales of his amazing photographs. You can support by purchasing any of the wonderful photos at https://www.jameskoutoulas.com as an acrylic painting, photograph, greeting cards, and more. Check it out! This is just one of the amazing prints available for purchase...   


  5. Ucoming Discover SCUBA Experience on 08/14/21. Register at www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com. Follow our eventbrite page to be notified of all upcoming events.

    We had a great response on the July 4th Boat Excursion. It is currently booked up, however, if you want to attend you can still join the waitlist in case a seat opens up.

    These activities can only be offered due to public support. Please consider becoming a sustaining member of Adaptive SCUBA Programs by joining Aquanuats Society, and share our mission and programs with your family and friends. Your support is greatly appreciated.


  6. Become an AQUANAUTS Society Member!!!  Get exclusive Society Member Embroidered Patch with velcro backing at any level of membership. By becoming a member, you are committing to a recurring donation, monthly or annually, at the levels below. Join AQUANAUTS SOCIETY today.



    Stud


  7. Check it out!!! This is what we have going this month, free for veterans and individuals with disabilities. If you would like to participate, please follow this link to register: www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com. Follow our eventbrite page to automatically be notified of posted events.

    June 12, 2021 (Saturday morning) : Discover SCUBA Experience in the pool. No experience needed.
    June 26, 2021 (Saturday morning) : Boat Excursion. Must be SCUBA Certified to participate (Sponsored for disabled veterans, so non-veteran participants will be limited)
    July 04, 2021 (Sunday morning) : Boat Excursion. Must be SCUBA Certified to participate (Sponsored for disabled veterans, so non-veteran participants will be limited)

    Follow our eventbrite page for new event postings. Let's Dive Into Life!!!
  8. Join us to bring Family Day in the Park to South Florida! Food, music, and fun supporting Adaptive SCUBA Programs. Sponsorship Opportunities!

  9. Don't miss out! Our monthly FREE Discover SCUBA Experience for May 08, 2021 is about to close signups. Get your reservation in for Saturday, or follow our eventbrite page for upcoming events. www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com

    Our activities are free for veterans and individuals with disabilities. We want to see you there!


  10. Back by popular demand! Limited time offer of Dive Into Life shirts. Available until March 27th, and then order shipping will begin on April 5th.

    Get yours today and support programming for Adaptive SCUBA Programs!  www.bonfire.com/dive-into-life
  11. If you are anyone you know is a U.S. military veteran and has been diagnosed with a disability (psychological, emotional qualifies also, not just physical) and wants to become SCUBA certified, reach out to us. We have several full scholarships for available for veterans with disabilities thanks to the Veterans Adaptive Sports program. 

    Scholarship steps.
    1) Join us on a FREE Discover SCUBA activity in the pool. (Register here (www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com)). Next date is April 10, 2021.

    2) Apply for scholarship on our website. Scholarship Application is at this link: www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/ScholarshipApplication.

    3) If you are a veteran with a disability, you will be approved after successful completion of Discover SCUBA and scholarship application. It is on a first come/first served basis. When they are gone, they are gone. If we get a next round of scholarships, we will announce. If you do not get yours in on time, we will go back to previously submitted scholarship applications first if new funding is received. So, it will put you on the waiting list.

    Get SCUBA Certified and discover the therapeutic value of SCUBA Diving. 
  12. IMPORTANT NOTICE


    We have missed you all. We are getting back on track with activities thanks to greater public awareness and observation of COVID safety measures by the general public. It is absolutely necessary that anyone who participates observes the safety concern of wearing a mask above water when possible and observe 6 feet minimum distance from others when not able to wear a mask. By observing these measures, you protect yourself against exposure and you protect those around you. You will be asked to complete a COVID declaration prior to participating in any activities. If you have had any exposure, we ask that you self-quarantine for 40 days prior to attending an activity.

    UPCOMING DATES

    OCTOBER 03, 2020 7:30a.m. Boat Excursion for Disabled Veterans

    You must be already Open Water Certified in order to participate in this activity. Remember, register early as there is limited seating due to observation of COVID precautions.


    OCTOBER 10, 2020 8:00a.m. Discover SCUBA Experience in the pool

    No experience required for this activity. Free for veterans and individuals with disabilities.

    OCTOBER 24, 2020 8:00a.m. Discover SCUBA Experience in the pool for Amputees

    No experience required for this activity. Free for veterans and individuals with disabilities.


    You can register for any of these activities and any upcoming activities, as posted, on www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com

    Thanks to the new award for 2020-2021 for VA Adaptive Sports program, we have many new events and some Basic Open Water scholarships to award to disabled veterans. In order to qualify for Basic Open Water SCUBA Certification scholarship, you MUST have successfully completed a Discover SCUBA Experience with us in the pool and submit a scholarship application which can be found on our website. Please apply as soon as possible as the awards will be handed out on a first come, first served basis.



    Come diving with us and enjoy the tranquility of the underwater world!!! We look forward to seeing you out there.

  13. PRE ORDER AVAILABLE NOW!!!   First time ever available, show your Aquanauts colors! You can pre-order now at discounted rates.
    Prices go up on order date of August 30.


    550 PARACORD BRACELET : $20.00

    NECKLACE : $15.00

    550 PARACORD KECHAIN : $15.00

    (Will have pickup dates available in the Fort Lauderdale area or you can add shipping for $5.)
    Click here to preorder: http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/Jewelry


  14. Shop at Altar'd State in the Galleria Mall any Monday between now and August 3rd, and 10% of their Monday sales goes to support Adaptive SCUBA Programs! Treat your best girl and support charity at the same time!!! 

    We will have a table set up there each Monday from 1:30 to 3:00pm on July 13, July 20, July 27, and August 3. Come say hello.
  15. Thanks to those that came out and joined us in our reunion with the Ocean after COVID stay at home order! Great times and check out more great pictures on our Facebook page!




  16. While we know that COVID is a serious threat, we strive to keep everyone connected. During stay at home order, that was including a weekly social zoom chat and game nights. 

    Now, we are beginning to get our feet wet again.

    We do now ask for a COVID declaration to be completed and signed before every activity, and if you have had any exposure, we ask that you sit out and quarantine for 40 days before joining our events.  On site, please wear masks when above water and maintain 6ft of separation between you and others. 

    Be safe, and do your best to help stop the spread.



  17. A huge thank you to the Florida Panthers Foundation and their Community Champions Grant for making it possible to bring the healing power of water and SCUBA Diving to our community veterans. If you are a veteran and would like to take part, please jump in one of our upcoming Discover SCUBA Experience activities to be eligible for SCUBA Certification award as part of this grant in our Sponsor a Veteran program.

    Thanks to this grant, we can offer full SCUBA Certification scholarships to 20 U.S. Veterans. Prerequisites, you have to attend a FREE Discover SCUBA Experience with us prior to award and you need to complete a scholarship application. You can find upcoming activities at 
    www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com.



  18. Take an active role in helping to preserve the national park in our own backyard. Thanks to National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), we have the opportunity to actively make a difference in preserving a rarely visited historic site.
    Come with us and help us clean up the site. Boat transportation from Biscayne National Park's Dante Fascell Visitor Center is provided to site as well as lunch for the volunteers. There is no dock on site, so volunteers will be wading to shore to begin cleanup. 

    There is limited space on the boat. We need a minimum of 8 volunteers, but can only take a maximum of 10. Please reserve your spot now (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lancelot-jones-project-tickets-66769181419) and help support the national park in our own backyard.

    About Lancelot Jones:

    Lancelot Jones was born and raised in what is now Biscayne National Park. His father, Israel Lafayette Jones, was one of the earliest settlers on Porgy Key. The Jones family grew pineapples in the early 1900’s on Porgy and Totten Keys. They became one of the country’s largest key lime producers. Rather than develop the land in 1970 it was sold to the federal government to become part of the park. Lancelot Jones continued to live on his family’s homestead until 1992 when Hurricane Andrew destroyed his residence. The Jones Family Historic District, including the remains of the former home and farm of Israel Lafayette Jones and his family, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.



  19. Thanks to everyone that came out today. It was a great day in the pool! The camaraderie and the fun are just two of the many reasons you should come out and join us. These events are FREE for veterans and individuals with disabilities. Don't miss out on the next one (October 12, 2019). You can register at this link: Eventbrite event page.

    This activity was sponsored and conducted by AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY. Be sure to follow our page on eventbrite so that you're notified of new events we post! www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com
  20.   Graduation Day!!
    It's been a great with the kids in the SCUBA camp. Special thank you to sponsors National Parks Conservation Association, iTiles, and Aquanauts SCUBA Academy for making this happen. Diving into Possibilities is what we do! We thank you for making it a reality. Again, thank you to NPCA's Jackie Crucet for joining us to celebrate on graduation day. Some highlights below:



  21. We are just a week away from our first Special Needs Kids SCUBA Camp. Sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), iTiles, and Aquanauts SCUBA Academy; this camp will provide Lifetime SCUBA Certifications for the children that participate. There is still a seat open, but you have to act fast. Deadline, whether seats are filled or not, is June 06, 2019 at 5:00pm. All doctors paperwork and other forms MUST be completed by the deadline. 

    For those that are already approved for a seat, you should have an email in your inbox via evite.com with details on the preliminary meet & greet Thursday (June 6, 2019) at 6:00pm. Please RSVP. We look forward to seeing you Thursday!

  22. Sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) our volunteers and participants were able to participate in a survey dive on the Maritime Heritage Trail in Biscayne National Park. This not only gets our veterans and individuals with disabilities a chance to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of SCUBA Diving, but it helps out the Park Service to survey conditions on the submerged archaeological sites. It was a great day for diving!

  23. Thanks to those who joined us for the FREE Discover SCUBA Experience! It was a wonderful day at our new pool venue. We look forward to seeing you all on the boat excursion next week!

    Next FREE Discover SCUBA Experience for Veterans and Individuals with disabilities is scheduled for July 14, 2019. You can register for this activity at www.AdaptiveScubaPrograms.Eventbrite.com

  24. Kids Camp is coming up. If you have a child (ages 10-17) with special needs, please submit your scholarship application soon. A seat cannot be awarded until all forms are completed and returned to us. Sponsored seats are limited.

    Sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), iTiles, and Aquanauts SCUBA Academy, this camp is a great experience. Don't let your child miss out on this opportunity!


  25. FREE for Disabled, Military Veterans, and Special Needs participants (Non-Divers) will have the opportunity to Discover SCUBA Experience (DSE) in the pool. Experience breathing underwater for the first time! Weightless underwater like an Astronaut in outerspace! Complete a Discover SCUBA Dive and feel the "Empowering Spirit of Freedom" dive. Dive assisted by Volunteers who are trained Buddy Divers (HSA) with Adaptive SCUBA Programs.

    No experience required for this lesson! This lesson MUST be completed confidently prior to ocean experience.

    Sponsored by: AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS and AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY.

    Veterans and Individuals with disabilities are welcome to bring their family and friends with them to participate for a discounted rate. If you would like to go experience SCUBA Diving and are NOT a veteran or individual with a disability, you can purchase this experience to be scheduled through AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY.

    Register for this activity at : www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com

    Volunteers: Do not register on eventbrite, rsvp on the AQUANAUTS AMBASSADORS app in band.



  26. Service Project! April 28, 2019. Come help us clean up Boca Chita Key Lighthouse.

    A great day of outdoor work. Could not find better surroundings! Get up close and personal with Boca Chita Key Lighthouse area and make a positive impact on Biscayne National Park. Let's do our part to help #fixourparks.  (Carpool is available from Oakland Park, FL)

    Still room for volunteers. Register soon! www.Adaptivescubaprograms.org/VolunteerRegistration.
    If you are already a registered volunteer, RSVP on our band calendar 'AQUANAUTS AMBASSADORS'. (If you are a registered volunteer that is not yet in our band app, click this link to join.)


  27. Memorial Rehabilitation Institute and AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS collaborated to bring to our community the 5th Annual Adaptive Sports & Recreation Expo at Markham Park in Sunrise, Florida. The event featured a wide variety of sports and exercises beneficial to the physical and mental health of those who have suffered strokes, lost the use of limbs, or are coping with traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. Activities and entertainment was provided for a fun filled day for the entire family.

    SPONSORS:
    Memorial Health Systems www.MHS.net/RehabExpo
    Memorial Rehab Institute "Go-Beyond"!
    www.facebook.com/Memorial Rehab Institute Adaptive Sports and Recreation Program

  28. Thank you to our volunteers and participants that dove on the Maritime Heritage Trail on March 23rd. Was a great dive! Beautiful conditions and our volunteers were able to clean up an entanglement hazard from one of the dive sites. Some great pictures from the event. A few are here, but you can find more on our facebook page.

        

    If you haven't come out to support our National Parks, watch for the next event! Upcoming events will be posted on www.AdaptiveScubaPrograms.eventbrite.com.

    Registered Volunteers: You will RSVP on the Band App.




  29. A ripple begins when something strikes the surface of the water. Your donation makes a ripple in the surface of someone's life. You may never know the depth of the difference you made, but you will know that you made a difference.

    Please join us to show how that ripple can spread to positively affect the lives of veterans and individuals with disabilities. 

    THE RIPPLE CHALLENGE IS THIS:
    1) Donate $5.00. (If you can do more, it is greatly appreciated.)
    2) This is just as important. Tag or invite at least 5 of your social network (whether Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc) to do the same. That will start a ripple and let's see how far it will go.
    3)Comment. Your thoughts on this challenge/mission/anything with your city and state listed.

    This challenge is raising money for Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics and your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate $1 or $500. Every little bit helps. Thank you for your support. If you, like us, are inspired by the healing power of water, check out our website (www.AdaptiveScubaPrograms.org) to see the benefits of becoming a sustaining member of the Aquanauts Society.


    Donate and share at this link! http://www.adaptivescubaprograms/donations  OR  https://www.facebook.com/donate/729579787443387/

  30. Lots happening this month!!

    March 09, 2019  8am:  Free Discover SCUBA Experience for veterans and individuals with disabilities. (You can also bring your family and friends at a discounted activity rate.) Sponsored by Aquanauts SCUBA Academy.  Participants register on Eventbrite (link below). Volunteers register on volunteer band app.

    March 23, 2019  7am:  Biscayne Maritime Heritage Trail Survey Dive. Sponsored by National Park Conservation Association (NPCA). Free for Veterans and Disabled. Participants MUST be SCUBA Certified. Register on eventbrite (link below). If you are already a registered volunteer, please rsvp on volunteer band app.

    March 30, 2019  10am: Adaptive Sports Expo for individuals with disabilities at Markham Park. Come on out! We'll be at the pool. Volunteers, register on volunteer band app. Sponsored by Memorial Regional Hospital

    And, don't forget our Ripple Effect Challenge. This is happening all month long! Please donate $1 and share with a minimum of 5 friends challenging them to do the same. See how far we can go in March! If you are not on Facebook, you can donate directly at http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/donations 
    Want to be more actively involved? Go one step further and make it a recurring donation of $15 or more to become an Aquauants Society Member. (Benefits are based on the donation level.)

    Come join us this month!

    Eventbrite Link : www.adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com


  31. A ripple begins when something strikes the surface of the water. Your donation makes a ripple in the surface of someone's life. You may never know the depth of the difference you made, but you will know that you made a difference.

    Please join us to show how that ripple can spread to positively affect the lives of veterans and individuals with disabilities. 

    THE RIPPLE CHALLENGE IS THIS:
    1) Donate $1.00. (If you can do more, it is greatly appreciated.)
    2) This is just as important. Tag or invite at least 5 of your social network (whether Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc) to do the same. That will start a ripple and let's see how far it will go.
    3)Comment. Your thoughts on this challenge/mission/anything with your city and state listed.

    This challenge is raising money for Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics and your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate $1 or $500. Every little bit helps. Thank you for your support. If you, like us, are inspired by the healing power of water, check out our website (www.AdaptiveScubaPrograms.org) to see the benefits of becoming a sustaining member of the Aquanauts Society.


    Donate and share at this link! https://www.facebook.com/donate/729579787443387/



  32. FREE Discover SCUBA Experience for Veterans and Individuals with disabilities coming up in March. It is posted for Veterans Park Pool in Tamarac, but due to delays by their approval department, it may be moved to Houston/Sworn Aquatic Center (event pages and anyone has registered will be notified prior if that happens).

    While it is FREE for Veterans and Individuals with disabilities, if you are a participant and would like your family or friends to join you in the activity, they  can do so at a discounted rate of $45 (normally $100) per person.

    All of these activities will be posted as they are scheduled on our Eventbrite page.

    March Event Ticket Linkhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/discover-scuba-experience-for-veterans-and-individuals-with-disabilities-tickets-52995469877
    Adaptive SCUBA Programs General Eventbrite Linkhttps://adaptivescubaprograms.eventbrite.com 




  33. Come with us to get your hands dirty and help preserve a historical site in Biscayne National Park. For a change, we are going to be on land! We will be helping in the maintenance of the Lancelot Jones House, a rarely visited site in Biscayne National Park. Please RSVP and carpool details will be provided.


  34. Our first Discover SCUBA Experience of the year is coming up on January 12, 2019. FREE for Veterans and Individuals with disabilities. There's still time to sign up! Two steps for participants to register:

    1) If you have not completed one previously (or if your information has changed), please complete Participant Registration Form.
    2) Reserve a seat in the desired activity on our Eventbrite Page.

    We look forward to seeing you there!
  35.                                               
    Thank you to those that came out to show their appreciation for iTiles and Nicola Borelli's support of Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics. Nicola presented us with the funds raised to help support the upcoming Special Needs Kids SCUBA Camp happening in June 2019. Nicola put time, training, and effort into running a marathon and donations were collected via his PledgeIt page to support this event.  Thank you Nicola for making it happen and iTiles for the matching donations. Check out this great company here: www.itilesllc.com

    Sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), it will be our first Kids SCUBA Camp for Children with Special Needs. There are sponsored spaces still available, so if you know a child with special needs between the ages of 10 and 17 that would benefit from this camp, please apply here: Kids SCUBA Camp Scholarship. The children that participate will not only have a week long fun activity, they will leave with a lifetime Open Water SCUBA Diver Certification as well as an understanding of Marine Conservation. 
  36. Thanks to those of you who came out to support Adaptive SCUBA Programs at the Spotlight hockey game on November 11th! A great video was premiered, showing the benefits of our program for veterans. A great big thank you to Maggy Idrobo Lopez (facebook.com/maggyvisual and @maggychang_ph).  Thank you to the Law Offices of Scott Sobel for sponsoring 'Kids of Love' to come enjoy the game and get some time on the ice!

    Check it out here! 
    https://youtu.be/7IL9F9Czvtg





  37. SHIRTS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE. For those that ordered their shirts, you will be notified when they come in.


  38. Limited Edition Shirts and Sweatshirts gone soon! Window for ordering these limited edition shirts closes on Halloween. 
    Order your shirt here.

  39. LOCATION:  MAIN LIBRARY • 100 S. ANDREWS AVENUE FORT LAUDERDALE, 33301

    EVENTS INCLUDE:
    • Combat Hippies spoken word performance
    • Speaker, E. Matthew “Whiz” Buckley,
    with book giveaway and book signings
    • Virtual reality demos and paracord 550 craft
    • Record your story: Library of Congress
    history project
    • “Ask a Curator: Desert Storm Memorabilia”
    • The Welcome Home Group:
    Employment preparation
    • Family fun: Storytime, book giveaway,
    face painting and more
    • Veterans organizations tables expo
    • Marine Corps birthday cake celebration

    ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS
    We will have a table at the event, and need volunteers to man the table.
    2 volunteers for setup and manning the table from 09:30am-02:00pm
    2 volunteers for manning the table from 02:00pm-06:30pm and breakdown
  40. Still time to sign up for Buddy Disability Training Course beginning on October 19 (Friday). Test your SCUBA skills and get qualified to dive with individuals with disabilities.

    10/19/18, Friday, Classroom Location: 
    Nova Southeastern University
    Carl DeSantis Building
    Davie Campus



    10/21/18, Sunday, Pool Location:
    Markham Park Pool
    Sunrise, FL



    HSA Buddy Disability Training Course: $750  Purchase Course Here: http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/BDT

    HSA Instructor Training Course: $1200  Purchase Course Here: http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/product/SD-99992782


  41. For those registered on the Maritime Heritage Trail Dive this Saturday (tomorrow), just a quick update.

    The dive is still scheduled to happen, although the water will NOT be flat. Expecting 2 to 3 foot seas. If you are not comfortable diving in or riding on a boat in those conditions, that is your call. Just let us know if you will not be attending.

    Red Algae Update: Again, the boat dive will happen. The last update (you can see this here: http://www.myfwc.com/research/redtide/statewide/) shows that the area we are diving is not yet affected by the Red Algae, picture here.




  42. Unfortunately, we did not receive the VA Grant for Adaptive Sports this year. That means we're in desperate need of sponsors for our veterans to make use of SCUBA Diving as a recreational therapy. We will try again next year, but our military veterans need you. This year-long program is only $3,000 per veteran. If you can, or you know of someone who can, sponsor a veteran; please help. Being disconnected from service is a mental hardship affecting many veterans. This helps reintegrate them into civilian society and removes many of the environmental pressures. The Discover SCUBA activities are great, but they are a one day activity. What the Sponsor-a-Veteran program does is get them involved all year with a therapeutic activity that does not involve hospitals are treatment centers. What is more is that it sets them up to continue the activity after their year program is done.

    SCUBA Diving not only is great therapy for physical ailments and injuries, it is an ideal therapy for emotional and mental concerns like Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Please help our veterans cope with the reintegration into civilian life with the help of healing ocean waters and nature. Please help by sponsoring, or sharing with your network of family and friends the need for this support.  Do you know a veteran that you would like to sponsor specifically? We do allow directed donations, so you can earmark your donation to go to a specific veteran. The only limitation is that this program is conducted in the Fort Lauderdale, FL area. We will be expanding to other areas down the road, but right now, it is location specific.

    Donate Here.   OR   Sponsor the Program Here.

  43. This is a contest for a promotional video about AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS. The winning video will have taken information from our website, social media page, you tube channel, etc. to create an engaging, informational video about our Adaptive SCUBA Programs. If you have experience with our program, feel free to use it in the video. The winner's video will be shown during the Panthers game on November 11, 2018.

    DETAILS:
    WINNERS RECEIVE:
    First place: Fort Lauderdale, FL Boat Excursion (sponsored by AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY) and Dive Into Life Shirt.

    Second Place: Dive Into Life Shirt


  44. Nicola Borelli and iTiles, LLC have partnered with Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics to raise money for the Kids SCUBA Camp for special needs and underprivileged children. Nicola will be running a marathon to raise money and awareness and iTiles will be matching the funds he raises! If you would like to contribute and have your impact doubled, visit this link: https://pledgeit.org/inspired-running

    This camp is going to happen June 17-21, 2019. National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has pledged partial funding for the camp. Thank you, Nicola and iTiles for helping to make this happen.


  45. Next survey dive for Biscayne National Park's Maritime Heritage Trail is scheduled for Saturday, October 06, 2018 (Labor Day). Don't miss it! Free for Veterans, Individuals with disabilities, and our Volunteers. Reserve your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maritime-heritage-trail-survey-dive-tickets-49920097355

    This event is sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). Don't forget. If you have not already registered as a volunteer or participant with us, you will need to complete a registration form in addition to reserving the ticket for this particular event.  

    Participant (Veteran or Individual with disability) Registration
    Volunteer Registration

    Help us support our nations' parks! 


  46. A shout out to Jordan Fund. Thank you so much for your support. Thanks to the Jordan Fund, Jesus R. (age 10) will achieve his SCUBA Diver Certification! That means that Jesus can use SCUBA Diving to help with his physical therapy program in coping with spina bifida and just generally enjoy the underwater world! 

    Volunteers: When Jesus is ready to move into the pool and then the ocean, we will put a call out for volunteers. Thank you for being there!
  47. Unfortunately, the Maritime Heritage Trail dive scheduled for September 3rd, Labor Day, has been postponed due to conditions. Captain is expecting 5-6 foot seas.

    We look forward to seeing you on the next one.

    Thank you for your patience with us and mother nature.
  48.   
    Join us for a Panthers game! November 11th we will be the organization featured in the Senators vs Panthers Game. 
    Your ticket purchased will show support for our organization. In addition, ALL tickets purchased through this link will include parking as well as a shot on the goal after the game!

    Different levels of tickets are available. Highest level is the Corona Beach House which will include food, wine, beer, and soda.

    See you there!

  49. A big thank you to National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA)! They have committed to sponsor 5 kids for the first Kids SCUBA Camp for special needs and underprivileged children. We have room for more sponsors to make this camp happen. Please spread the word and help us make this a great program for the kids.

    If you know of a child between the ages of 10 and 17 that could benefit from this camp, please have their parents complete a sponsorship application at this link: http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/ScholarshipApplication

    Thank you NPCA, you rock!


  50. Big news! We are in final stages of approval  for a new pool to conduct Discover SCUBA Experiences!  What that means is that the regular FREE Discover SCUBA Sessions for veterans and individuals with disabilities will resume!

    Stay tuned for upcoming dates. 


  51. Don't forget to get your BBQ tickets for this Sunday, August 12th! Show your support for our awesome volunteers! Volunteer Appreciation BBQ will take place from 11:00am to 2:00pm in Oakland Park, FL. 

    Get tickets here:  BBQ Meal Ticket

    Enjoy the delectable food from Mission BBQ! 





  52. Next survey dive for Biscayne National Park's Maritime Heritage Trail is scheduled for Monday, September 03, 2018 (Labor Day). Don't miss it! Free for Veterans, Individuals with disabilities, and our Volunteers. Reserve your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maritime-heritage-trail-survey-dive-tickets-48887762614

    This event is sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). Don't forget. If you have not already registered as a volunteer or participant with us, you will need to complete a registration form in addition to reserving the ticket for this particular event.  

    Participant (Veteran or Individual with disability) Registration
    Volunteer Registration

    Help us support our nations' parks! 
  53. Unfortunately, the August 4th dive has been called for inclement weather. We will post the reschedule date soon. 

    Don't forget the Volunteer Appreciation BBQ is happening August 12th. Hope to see you there!  

    If you have not yet gotten tickets, you can find them here: http://aquanautsvolunteerbbq.eventbrite.com?s=87083369




  54. Join us for a BBQ Party to show appreciation for our wonderful volunteers! Reserve a ticket today at : http://aquanautsvolunteerbbq.eventbrite.com?s=87083369

    August 12, 2018 - Sunday, 11:00a.m. to 2:00p.m.
    Royal Palm Park 1701 Northwest 38th Street, Oakland Park, FL 33309

    Volunteers register for a FREE ticket at the ticket link.
    Society Members register for a FREE ticket at the ticket link.
    General Meal Ticket (Pre-Paid at the ticket link) is $20.00.  ($30.00 on-site)

    We look forward to seeing you out there!


  55. AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS
    was recently recognized for our transparency with a 2018 Gold Seal on our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile!

    GuideStar is the world’s largest source of information on nonprofit organizations. More than 8 million visitors per year and a network of 200+ partners use GuideStar data to grow support for nonprofits. In order to get the 2018 Gold Seal, AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS shared important information with the public using our profile on www.guidestar.org. Now our community members and potential donors can find in-depth information about our goals, strategies, capabilities, and progress. We’re shining a spotlight on the difference we help make in the world. Check out our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile and tell us what you think: AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS PROFILE
  56. Thank you to everyone who came out to do the Maritime Heritage Trail Dive. It was a great day! Thank you to National Parks Conservation Association for giving us the opportunity to help support our nations' parks. Quick reminder to our divers, please email your surveys as soon as possible.

    A thank you to Michelle for sharing some of her pictures from the event. Check them out!



    We look forward to seeing more! Share your experience here!
  57. Your shopping matters. This Father's Day, shop for Dad at and Amazon donates to Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics Inc.





  58. Next dive for Maritime Heritage Trail is Scheduled!Sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). Don't miss out. Reserve your seat today on Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maritime-heritage-trail-survey-dive-tickets-46657897026?aff=efbeventtix
  59. ATTENTION!

    All event participation for volunteers and/or participants will be on Eventbrite tickets. If you do not reserve a ticket, you are NOT on the roster. This is an attempt to better track attendees and support for these events. We appreciate your help in this matter.
  60. Diving Emergency Management Provider Course practical portion is happening this evening from 6pm to 9pm. Please arrive by 5:30pm if possible. 

    Location: Pompano Dive Center, 101 N Riverside Drive, Pompano Beach, FL 

    If you have not yet completed your academics, please show for the practical portion anyway. Then, once both are completed, you will receive your certification. 
  61. Dive for May 28 is a no go.

    We were holding out hope, but the winds pick up tomorrow rather than abate by the looks of it. It has been postponed. We will notify everyone of the reschedule date when we have it confirmed.




  62. Diving Emergency Management Provider (DEMP) Course 

    Dive accidents are rare, but they may require prompt, specific action. No single set of skills will meet all the various demands a dive accident may present. The Diving Emergency Management Provider (DEMP) program combines skills from four first-aid courses offered by your instructor to streamline and put into context the care that may be necessary. 


    This course is FREE for volunteers that have logged a minimum of 32 volunteer hours with Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics within the last year. Otherwise, there is a purchase option at the ticket linket. 

    You will complete your academic portion online (invitation will be received upon purchase), and then your practical portion will begin on this date at the location below.

    Class Date/Time: 
    June 01, 2018 6:00pm

    Classroom Location:
    Pompano Dive Center
    Sands Harbor Marina
    101 N Riverside Drive #111
    Pompano Beach, FL 33062

    Again, complete your academics prior to arrival for practical portion.

    RESERVE YOUR SEAT HERE: EVENTBRITE

    IMPORTANT: To qualify for the sponsored ticket, you must be a volunteer with Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics AND have logged a minimum of 32 volunteer hours within the last year. If you are unsure of your volunteer hours logged, please contact us at info@adaptivescubaprograms.org to verify.

  63. The Maritime Heritage Trail Survey Dive (sponsored by National Parks Conservation Association-NPCA) is coming up on May 28, 2018. If you are on the roster, you have received a confirmation email with departure time, location, etc. If not, you have either not informed us that you are coming and/or you have not completed a volunteer registration. 

    Space on the boat is filling up fast. If you would like to participate, please make sure you complete the necessary steps. 
    1) Advise us of your intent to participate. (You can email info@adaptivescubaprograms.org)
    2) Complete a volunteer registration. (Registration form is at this link: http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/VolunteerRegistration)

    Don't get left behind!
  64. If you are interested in becoming a fully qualified dive volunteer...

    Next Buddy Disability Training is coming up on June 15-17, 2018.

    There are limited scholarships for this activity. Please complete your scholarship application on our website if you are interested in a scholarship for this training. Event Page on Facebook.

    If a scholarship is not immediately available, please keep in mind that we do accept directed donations. If you can obtain your own sponsor for the training, we will apply that funding as the sponsor requests. For example, if your company supports volunteer activities and will sponsor you to receive the specialized training, they just need to let us know it is earmarked for your development as a volunteer. Your company can see details about making this donation here: Corporate sponsorship.


  65. Congrats to Mission United for celebrating their 5-Year mark! We appreciate your support for veterans in our community. Your mission is inspiring. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of it.

    MISSION UNITED supports United States military veterans and their families as they re-acclimate to civilian life. MISSION UNITED focuses on employment services, legal assistance, education, financial services, health & housing support.

    Find out how MISSION UNITED can support you and your family. Click here: http://ow.ly/xq9T50hfj02 or calling 954.4.UNITED or email MISSIONUNITED@UnitedWayBroward.org.

    VETERANS, GET THE HELP YOU HAVE EARNED!

  66. So, after many long days, we have submitted a grant application to the Veterans Administration. We will know by September if we are able to obtain funding. If so, it could mean a comprehensive SCUBA Recreational Therapy Program for veterans with disabilities.  Since SCUBA is a great treatment for many impairments, like PTSD and Spinal Cord Injuries, etc. we are really looking forward to making these programs more available. Power of positive thinking! Help us make it happen. 

    In the meantime, we would love to hear your testimonials on SCUBA Diving as a therapeutic program. Share them on our facebook page (www.Facebook.com/AdaptiveScubaPrograms) or any of our other Social Media pages.  Also, check us out on Guidestar and share your stories there.  These stories go a long way in securing funding to keep the program going.  
  67. You should have received your April newsletter with the recaps and some upcoming events. April was a full month! We got a number of individuals with disabilities utilizing SCUBA diving as a therapeutic program. It is a great therapy as the activity provides for the increase in the production of serotonin delivered to the spine. This results in increased mobility, a lessening in pain, and elevating mood. It is really an all-in-one therapy.

    We got some great new volunteers trained and ready to go, and solidified partnerships.  We got some great momentum going! Check it out.

    If you have not subscribed to our email updates, you can see our latest newsletter here: https://conta.cc/2Fp5uwV

  68. We would really like to thank Mission United for partnering with us to submit a funding request to the Veterans Administration. With luck, this will provide several scholarships for Dive Therapy Programs for disabled veterans. 

    You can help us obtain this funding!  We are in need of letters recounting veterans personal experiences and how SCUBA Diving has helped them cope, lessened pain, etc. How has it affected you? If you are a spouse of a veteran and SCUBA Diving has helped your husband or wife, please share this too. We need your personal stories to help explain why this is such a great therapy program.

    If you have a story to share, please email Serena Barghahn at serena@adaptivescubaprograms.org.  We thank you for your time in helping us expand this program. Remember, Mission United has many resources to help veterans. If you are struggling with anything, contact them. There is likely help available for you. 
  69. Congratulations to our newest volunteers that have just completed the Buddy Disability Training Certification Course. Your humor and dedication is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events. A huge thank you to the scholarship sponsors from this session.

    NATIONAL PARKS CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION (NPCA) sponsored two of our new volunteers.
    AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY sponsored one of our new volunteers.
    MISSION UNITED sponsored use of the meeting room.

    The support of these organizations are invaluable. Thank you for being involved in your community. 

    One of our sponsors from this training, AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY, is holding a Rescue Diver Class next month. It is a coveted skill set for our primary volunteers. If you have not yet obtained that certification and would like to, check out their course. You can purchase the course here: http://www.aquanauts.biz/RescueDiverRegistration.


  70. You can now become an AQUANAUTS Society Member!  Join the ranks of the subscribed supporters of the Adaptive SCUBA Programs. Your monthly contributions will help integrate veterans and individuals with disabilities into the community. You can positively affect people in your community by supporting this program with a recurring monthly donation. With many different levels, the smallest starting at just 50 cents a day, you can make a change in someone's life! (Not to mention the cool swag...

    Join the AQUANAUTS Society here: http://www.adaptivescubaprograms.org/AQUANAUTSSocietyMemberLevels    

    In this new age, don't forget, many employers have a matching program. Ask your employer about this and double your impact! With Social Responsibility becoming more and more crucial for businesses, it is more likely your employer may want to support what is important to their employees. Tell them about AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE AQUATICS. We need involved citizens to help us spread the word. 

    Keep in mind, we are in need of volunteers to take a more active role in the non-diving activities. If you are willing to participate in a committee, please contact Serena at Serena@AdaptiveScubaPrograms.org. Volunteers are the life-blood of this organization.

  71. It was a great meeting. Very informative. If you missed it, don't miss the next one! Our partner National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) is doing great things toward preserving and maintaining our nations' parks. It is always good to make your voice heard. We have to make sure that the parks are there maintained and preserved for generations to come.

    You can always check out their website at www.npca.org to see how you can help.

    Thank you to NPCAMISSION UNITED, and MISSION BBQ for making today happen.

    For those of you that were on our dive when the PBS crew was shooting... the video is available here: www.vimeo.com/252354335/6b2735d2d1
    Please share the video, and let people know what is happening.
  72. Just a reminder. The Park Advocacy Workshop is happening tomorrow! It will be held at the Mission United Building and begins at 10:00am. We will have Krispy Kreme for breakfast and Mission BBQ is providing lunch!

    We're going to have a great time and find out what threats are looming for our nations' parks. Come support our partnership with National Park Conservation Association (NPCA) and find out how you can help protect our parks for generations to come.

    Those you who have already registered, thank you! We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you tomorrow. If you have not yet registered, there is still space available. Just click the ticket link in our Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/162993831177538/ to reserve your seat.
  73. It was a great day at the 4th Annual Memorial Rehab Adaptive Sports Expo!!! Thank you so much for everyone who came out to make it a fun and safe event. And a big thank you to the folks that came out to try something new. An event organized by Memorial Regional Hospital. We appreciate the opportunity to be a part of it. Please check out the photos from the event! 

    Special shout outs to:

    MEMORIAL REHAB for including us in this wonderful event again. Nothing brightens our days more than being able to bring the joys and benefits of SCUBA to more people in our community.

    AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY for providing the equipment and know-how, as always.

    DJ INFANTRY for helping us to spread the word, and don't forget to check out his video of the event.

    MOST OF ALL.... OUR VOLUNTEERS! You are the lifeblood of this organization. The commitment to your community and your commitment to training that helps these events happen is invaluable. We especially thank you for your time and energy.
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