The seaside community of Jupiter hosted another inspirational community event this weekend–Surfers for Autism. Robert Putnam’s book, Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community discusses the importance of local community and how social connections affect our lives in profound ways. The local community of Jupiter builds on this social capital. The population (approximately 55,000) is an example of a local community where there is a sense of shared responsibility, goodwill and fellowship. Residents cooperate, help their neighbors and everyone benefits.

Surfers for Autism’s goal is to eliminate the stigma of developmental delay through public awareness and education and to unite communities through volunteerism.