Our mission and story
Our story began in the year 2000, with the plan to generously donate approximately seven acres of property near the ocean in the Princeton Harbor of Half Moon Bay, by two families whose beautiful children and close relatives have developmental and other disabilities.
Due to its ocean proximity, their shared dream was named “Big Wave”. Their vision was to build and provide a safe and nurturing place for adults with special needs to reach their full potential while being integrated members of the community.
Their plan began with these founding principles:
- Celebrate and support adults with a variety of disabilities in a supported living model
- Provide the opportunity for lifetime residency
- Encourage active resident involvement in their home and surrounding communities through enriching activities, learning opportunities, and engagement with members of the broader Bay Area community
- Utilize a design that encourages independence, ensures safety, and considers the unique characteristics of Big Wave residents
- Value meaningful, long-term relationships between residents, families, and support staff
- Strive to accommodate residents across a broad financial spectrum
This project represents many years of dedication and hard work. Over 27 years, the Big Wave team secured entitlements from San Mateo County and the California Coastal Commission, obtained building permits, completed several years of underground infrastructure installation, built the two-story, 50,000-square-foot Big Wave Center, and created community pathways that connect the nearby working harbor, the adjacent residential neighborhood, and the coastal riparian habitat.
Construction officially began in October 2024, and the Big Wave Center is now open and serving residents and local and Bay Area visitors.
Big Wave is a 501(c)(3) organization, driven by parents and families and supported by the broader community. Our work is funded by friends and families, private donors, and grants from foundations and corporations.
