Our StoryÂ
Wave of Hope began with a desire to create places where young people could connect, belong and discover what’s possible.
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It started with a simple idea: learning can be so much more than academics. We wanted homeschool students to have a place to connect, build friendships and learn through experiences that are engaging, meaningful and fun.
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Through hands-on learning, community experiences and opportunities to give back, students can explore new interests, build confidence and discover the joy of learning beyond the classroom.
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The vision for Wave of Hope has always reached beyond where we started.
We began dreaming about what it could look like to create that same sense of connection and belonging for teens walking through some of life's harder seasons.
A place where they could step away from the pressures around them, be surrounded by people who genuinely care, build meaningful relationships, have fun, experience new things and begin to see hope for what lies ahead.
That dream is becoming our Youth Retreat & Mentorship Program—a faith-centered experience designed to meet teens where they are and remind them that they are valued, they belong and their story is far from finished.
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And we're only getting started.
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Our vision for Wave of Hope continues beyond the programs we offer today. As the ministry grows, we plan to create additional opportunities that support young people and families through different seasons of life—including Career & Trade Programs beginning in 2027, designed to connect young people with real-world experiences, mentors, career exploration and pathways to discover where their strengths and interests could take them.
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Over time, we hope to continue expanding into additional programs that provide practical support, mentorship, resources and opportunities wherever we see a need we are equipped to meet.
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Create connection. Open doors. Inspire hope.
Because sometimes one connection, one experience or one person who believes in you can change what you believe is possible.
Meet Our Board
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The people behind the mission
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Lori Cutunilli
Founder, CFO & Presdient, Board of Directors
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Lori founded Wave of Hope in 2020 with a vision to create an affordable educational alternative where families feel supported and parents are empowered in their children’s education. Her background spans business administration, small business ownership, public education and nonprofit service. As President & CEO, Lori remains actively involved in guiding the organization, its programs and leadership. Her commitment to family, education and community continues to shape Wave of Hope’s mission to create meaningful opportunities and lasting hope for young people and families.
Shannon Gribble
Vice President, Board of Directors
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Shannon brings a background in business development, leadership and coaching, along with a heart for helping young people discover their strengths and potential. Her passion for education was shaped by her own experience in alternative education, where a different approach to learning allowed her to thrive and graduate early. She has also served with organizations supporting at-risk youth and in teen ministry. Shannon believes young people thrive when they feel seen, supported and given opportunities to learn, grow and discover what they’re capable of.
Josh Cowan
Secretary, Board of Directors
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Josh brings extensive leadership, technology and cybersecurity experience to Wave of Hope, shaped by both his professional career and service in the U.S. Navy. His background in leading teams, solving complex challenges and mentoring others brings a valuable perspective to the ministry’s continued growth. Josh is especially passionate about helping young people recognize their strengths, build confidence and explore meaningful paths for their future. He believes strong mentors, real-world experiences and the opportunity to try something new can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life.
Bart Black
Board of Directors
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Bart brings a lifelong heart for service shaped by growing up in Guatemala as the son of missionary parents. From an early age, he was immersed in ministry focused on children and families, including educational outreach and feeding programs serving hundreds of children. Today, Bart continues to support his family’s ministry by managing donor accounts, financial supporters and stateside operations. His experience in nonprofit service, combined with his deep commitment to faith, family and children, brings a valuable perspective to Wave of Hope and its mission to create meaningful opportunities to young people & families.
Leigh Sargent
Board of Directors
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Leigh brings decades of experience in entrepreneurship, manufacturing and workforce development. Originally from Australia, he began his career in Engineering Patternmaking, earning Australia’s Apprenticeship of the Year and two overseas scholarships to study and work in the United Kingdom. After coming to the United States, Leigh founded Applied Composites Engineering and later Zipp Bicycle Wheels. Through his work with US Apprenticeships, he has helped young people identify their strengths and connect education with meaningful career paths. His passion for hands-on learning aligns naturally with Wave of Hope’s commitment to helping young people discover what’s possible for their future.