In Smyrna-Vinings, generosity shines year-round—but it feels especially meaningful during the holidays. From empowering youth and supporting families in need to uplifting first responders and creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities, each story reflects the compassion that defines our community. These local business owners, educators, and civic leaders remind us that giving isn’t just about the season—it’s about connection, gratitude, and the shared desire to make life a little brighter for others.
Leanne Allen, Realtor
Augusta Training Shop
This time of year, I’m proud to support Augusta Training Shop and the incredible mission behind their work. They provide meaningful employment for adults with disabilities, offering a supportive space where each person can develop skills, set goals, and be celebrated for their unique worth. In a world that often moves too fast, I deeply value their focus on patience, purpose, and personal growth—qualities we could all use more of. Their signature handmade snowflakes and angels are a beautiful reflection of that spirit, with each one starting as a simple piece of wood and becoming art through human touch, care, and intention.
Anthony Alvarez, Owner, The Vineyard Wine Market
Smyrna Public Safety Foundation
My favorite philanthropy is the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation. It’s meaningful to me because I believe a community’s health is built on its most essential services. Police and firefighters are more than just first responders; they are active citizens of Smyrna who participate in everyday life and build a sense of security through their visible presence. By supporting the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation, I help ensure that these dedicated individuals feel respected and appreciated for their vital role.
Major Louis Defense III, Smyrna Police Department
Support Smyrna
My favorite nonprofit is Support Smyrna. I am a huge supporter and fan of this nonprofit and the family that created it. I’ve had a firsthand account of how this organization helps Smyrna citizens. This program is supported by Smyrna citizens for Smyrna citizens, which in my opinion continues to make Smyrna one of the best cities in the country to live, work, and play.
Dr. LaEla Mitchell, Principal, Campbell Middle School
Threads of Kindness
My current favorite community organization is one established by the Cobb County School District Social Workers called “Threads of Kindness.” Their mission is to provide school clothing to students in need throughout the school year. This organization is especially meaningful to me because I can recall several times during my teaching career when I would wash clothing for my students in need. At the time, I had young children of my own and wasn’t making much money, so I couldn’t always buy clothes, but I knew that small things made a big difference. Later in my career, I began buying a few extra items when shopping for my own children and kept them in my classroom for students who needed them—there was never a time when I didn’t run out of clothes. While I still try to keep a few items available, I believe this organization has a broader reach and can support families with greater needs, and I’m truly honored to help in any way I can.
Rickey N. Oglesby, Jr., City Councilman – Ward 7
Krimson Community Foundation
My favorite nonprofit is Krimson Community Foundation, which operates in Smyrna and across the greater Atlanta area. The goal is to empower young men to achieve in all facets of life. Young men between grades 4–12 gain access to education, mentorship, scholarships, and community engagement. The foundation has gifted college scholarships to over 200 young men since 2005. Mentorship is one of the most selfless things you can do—it doesn’t take much time, but it’s a powerful way to give back and stay positively connected to our youth.
Michael Tardella, General Manager, RoofTop Contracting
Support Smyrna
I love Support Smyrna, a local nonprofit that supports disadvantaged families right here in our community. During the holidays, they provide gifts for children of families in financial need. It’s great to see the immediate impact they provide in our city!