About Us
8 Waves is a non-profit supporting students facing barriers in Orange County, Lake County, and Central Florida through education recovery, tutoring, and whole-student support.
Meet the Team
Every Student Deserves a Chance to Thrive.
- Sara Meyer
Founder & Executive Director
Sara Meyer didn’t set out to start a nonprofit, she responded to a need she couldn’t ignore.
As a trauma therapist, she saw how instability and limited access to education were shaping children’s futures. After a local tragedy, she felt called to act, and 8 Waves was born.
Built on the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive,
8 Waves provides stability and educational support to help break cycles of generational poverty. When one student is supported, the ripple effect can change everything.
Board of Directors
Joseph Khayat
Board Chair
President, Horizon West Hospital;
Vice President, Orlando Health
Austin Arthur
Chris Dickens
Treasurer
Vice President - Dickens Wealth Management
Belynda Pinto
Secretaty
Executive VP - Mike Holt Enterprises & Curriculum Creator - Life101 Boot Camp
Scott Spragg
Immediate Past-Chair
Retired Executive Director - First Tee of Central FL
Lee Steinhauer
Executive Committee Member
President - The Steinhauer Group, LLC
David Buckles
Owner - Paradox Consultants
Meredith Rosser
Community Board Member - The American Diabetes Association
Sean LaGasse
Pastor - Purpose Church Orlando
Owner - HomeRun Pest Control
Ray Holden
Retired CEO, Miller's Ale House
Founder, Sizzlin' Greens
Christina Hale
Multi-Speciality Sales Account
Manager- Sterling Pathology
Frankie Liz
Entrepreneur | Roasted Spirit & Daniel’s Cheesesteak House
Sharon Williams
Licensed broker - Exchange Place, Inc.
Trusted by Our Community. Proven by Our Impact.
8Waves is committed to responsible stewardship and clear accountability. With nationally recognized standards, your support is handled with integrity and felt by students and families across Lake and Orange Counties.
2025 Impact
2,000
Students
Impacted
26,000
Meals
Provided
15,000
Hygiene Kits
Distributed
2x
Graduation Rates
for Students Receiving
Consistent 8 Waves Support
Our Community Partners
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