Sara Smith
Executive Director ; The Center for Pregnancy Choices of Meridian ; 36
Who do you look to for inspiration or mentorship ? I look to my husband who is my rock for support and inspiration . I lean into the discernment and guidance of several women in my life who have experienced life ’ s challenges and come through even stronger than before because of the resilience God has given them . Some of these people include my mother , grandmother , and spiritual sisters like the Judys , Team Brittney and Sister Willis . I know these women are available to support and encourage me through tough moments and remind me of the bigger mission in life : to love God and love our neighbor .
Where did your spirit of altruism develop and why is it important to give back ? Growing up , my mom showed me what it looked like to live a life demonstrating hospitality and kindness toward others . I also think about my own experience as a teen mom and how the Center for Pregnancy Choices , the church and my family wrapped loving arms around me and my young family as we tried to navigate the unknown territories of parenthood . God continues to see us through by weaving the right people and provisions into our storyline as we need them .
What is your community ’ s greatest asset ? My community ’ s greatest asset is its spirit of giving . Having served 10 years in local non-profit work , I have seen our community rise to the occasion time after time to support the causes of agencies that pour our so much love back into families who need to feel safe , have basic needs met , and a friend in their corner .
What ’ s your favorite saying and why ? My favorite saying came from my mom , “ Make a great day ”. This is a call for us take the time we are given and redeem it for a higher purpose that blesses you and those within your circles of influence .
Education : Graduate of Meridian Community College ; Bachelors of Arts degree in Outdoor Leadership and Education , Toccoa Falls College .
Memberships , activities : Core team member of “ Calling All Sectors ,” a maternal health partnership with the PEW Charitable Trust and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation ; Excel by 5- Family and Parent Support Liaison and sustainable partner with the Mississippi State Department of Health , Office of Community Improvement ; served as a mentor in programs such as Christian Women ’ s Job Corps ; worked with at-risk youth ; crisis intervention ; victim services ; and serves within the children and youth departments at Collinsville First Baptist Church .
Family : Spouse : Chad Smith ; Children : Evan , 18 , a baby in Heaven we ’ ve named “ Willow ”, and Preston , 8 .
www . meridianstar . com
• 7