CHAIRMAN & FOUNDER

In 2017, Jeff Powers founded Float Hope along side his mother, noted local philanthropist Virginia Powers. Jeff was inspired by the lifelong benefits that swimming provided for his son, William Powers. At the age of only 9, William was hit by a car and swimming became his sport and discipline. Jeff credits the skills gained in the pool for helping William attend Georgetown as a swimmer, and to now enjoy a flourishing career in the private equity sector. Jeff has made it his mission to extend these benefits to underserved local children. Previously, Jeff served as CEO of Powers Fasteners Inc. and holds a BSBA in Finance from Georgetown University, McDonough School of Business.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Beata joined Float Hope in 2023 to help expand Float Hope’s reach to the many children in Indian River County that lack access to affordable swim lessons. An avid childhood swimmer and a mother to three school-age sons, Beata understands first hand the importance of swimming and also the challenges parents face when trying to get their children into the pool. Prior to joining Float Hope, Beata enjoyed a career in corporate litigation, practicing law at K&L Gates then Goldberg Kohn in Chicago. Public service has been a lifetime priority, and Beata has worked in the non-profit sector, including at the Greater Educational Opportunities Foundation in Indianapolis. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Gifford Youth Achievement Center.

SWIM DIRECTOR

Coach Barlow is an Olympic level swim coach and coached Rhi Jeffrey, a Gold Medalist, in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens Greece. He has also been a member of the USA Swimming National Team staff for eight years.

Prior to establishing Treasure Coast Swim Club in 2005, Coach Barlow competed at Eastern Michigan University, and then graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a degree in Sports Physiology and Psychology. Coach Barlow serves as Head Coach of Sebastian River High School’s swim team, and has trained over a dozen High School Champions and All-Americans. In 2023, he was named Scripps High School Treasure Coast Coach of the Year for the tenth time!

During his 40 years as a coach, Coach Barlow has produced 5 High School All Americans National level swimmers and a 2013 Florida High School two-time State Champion. Under his direction, Treasure Coast Swim Club was awarded the USA Swimming Bronze level of excellence in 2010 and 2023. Coach Barlow has also trained many Florida Age Group Champions and Top 10 Swimmers in the Florida Swimming LSC.

SWIM DIRECTOR

Coach Holly McClain has been a swimmer her entire life. During her collegiate years, Coach McClain competed at the University of Tampa. She brings with her a strong swimming background having been a YMCA National Champion and Senior National Qualifier. She also serves as Head Coach of the Vero Beach High School swim team. Throughout her years of coaching, McClain received many accolades, including the ASCA age group Coach of the Year award for the Florida Gold Coast.

With Treasure Coast Swim Club, Coach McClain has a passion for coaching the youngest members of the team and enjoys seeing them improve to the point where they compete in meets.