Charting a course of self-reliance

smiles at sea is building the model everyone else talks about.

Execution over hype. Results over noise.

We’re not, nor have any interest to be, a part of the professional fundraising class.

We are a small team of relentless doers devoted to giving this most deserved student population something immeasurable—a family miracle.

The Nitty Gritty….

At Smiles at Sea, our founding approach is contrarian by design. We intend to do something unusual in the nonprofit world: Fund our core operations with earned income. Every year, we shall charter for 90 days—resulting revenue will fund the next nine months of free, transformative voyages for families of children with disabilities.

This isn't “trying something different.” This is building the model everyone else talks about—we will never be dependent on a miracle each December nor forced to build an organization that prioritizes anything other than why we’re here in the first place. Our mission will sail because we designed it that way from the start.

Charter 90 days. Serve 275

Let’s say this plainly: Upon raising the inaugural funds to launch, we’re doggedly committed to earn our way to service. The same luxury yacht that welcomes VIP guests for 90 days a year becomes a floating haven for families the other 275. And when it does, it's not a watered-down version—it’s the full experience with the addition of CCC-SLP’s + adjacent special education professionals volunteering their time to ensure the miracles achieved last a lifetime. Delivered at sea, delivered with heart.

Meet Our Team

  • Dr. Stec is the Superintendent of Lombard School District 44, widely recognized as one of Illinois’ premier school districts. Under his leadership, District 44 is committed to educating the “whole child”—fostering academic excellence while also supporting social and emotional growth. The district is home to nationally recognized Blue Ribbon Schools and award-winning programs.

    In addition to his distinguished career in educational leadership, Dr. Stec is the author of The Connection Mindset: A Solution for Our Schools, a highly regarded book that provides innovative strategies for strengthening community and improving outcomes in education.

  • Mr. Zicari serves as Managing Partner and CEO of The Bonadio Group, a nationally ranked Top 100 accounting and financial advisory firm based in Rochester, New York. In addition to leading the firm’s strategic and operational direction, he remains deeply engaged in civic and nonprofit leadership. He currently serves on the board of the University of Rochester Medical Center and is the former President of Special Olympics Western New York.

  • Founder and Managing Director, Mainstay Group

    Mr. Ball has deep expertise in the purchase, operation and management of charter yachts. His life-long commitment to children with special needs have made him an invaluable resource as smiles at sea charts its inaugural course—and beyond. Mr. Ball’s leadership will be an instrumental component of scaling the number of partner yachts to serve our smiles at seas families each year.