Support Documentary on Izzy and Isaiah by Colby and Brandon

Hi!

I'm Colby. I'm also a producer with over ten years of experience in the video content and advertising space.

I'm raising money for a project that is very near and dear to my heart - a documentary about ex pro surfer Izzy Paskowitz and his autistic son Isaiah and how the water has woven their connection.

You can view the film teaser here

I met Izzy and Isaiah five years ago while surfing in Cabo, Mexico. A stranger one moment, a friend and surf coach the next. Between paddling tips and generous pushes, Izzy explained he was there with his organization, Surfer's Healing, a camp that takes autistic kids surfing. They also hold camps around the US and Australia.

My producer mind started spinning. With this very little information, I excitably asked Izzy if I could make a documentary about him and his work. Ambitious and certainly a bit forward, Izzy still heard me out. What unfolded was years of learning, listening and documenting Izzy and Isaiah's world.

'In their own time and space' is about a father and son finding their own time and space—not only for themselves, but for each other. It’s also about acceptance, connection, the healing power of nature, and love that transcends language.

This project has been a labor of love. For the last five years I’ve popped in and out of the Paskowitz’s life, capturing camps when they visited Australia in 2020 and moments whenever I could pay a visit to California. Now that I’m back in the US, finishing this project is my main priority.

To date, the film has been self- funded. It would not be possible without my very talented friends lending their time and gear over the years. At this time I am seeking donations to support the rest of the filmmaking process. Our goal is to raise $60,000 for the following:

• Production: $20,000 [crew, equipment, travel]

• Post Production: $35,000 [edit, animation, sound design, color grade]

• Festival submission costs: $5,000

My goal for this documentary is to educate and inform – on the reality of raising and living with an autistic child, how different doesn’t mean disabled, the importance and benefits of connecting to nature, and how love, above all, has the power to change us.

Izzy and his wife Danielle started Surfer’s Healing in 1996 with one goal: to give autistic children and their families’ one perfect day. My hope is this project will also raise awareness of the work they are doing with Surfer’s Healing and support its growth and reach.

When Isaiah was born in 1991, it’s estimated that 1 in 500 children in the US were diagnosed with autism. In 2024, that rate has increased to 1 in 36 children. At this point, we all know someone that is on the spectrum and yet there's still so much we don't know. Sharing stories that deepen our understanding—even just a little—can inspire greater compassion and empathy in our communities.

In addition to funding this documentary, 5% of each donation will go directly to Surfer’s Healing – a 501c non-profit organization. As an expression of our gratitude, all donor names will be included in the end credits.

I am deeply grateful for any amount donated and please know that your support will have an impact far greater than this film alone. I encourage you to read more about Surfer’s Healing on their website and get a taste of their incredible work.

Thank you for your consideration! I look forward to keeping you updated on the film’s progress and its eventual release. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to learn more or have any questions.

With immense gratitude,

Colby