Currently in her 11th year as executive director at River City Habitat for Humanity, Kelly Smith has announced her resignation, effective Friday. The search is already underway for her replacement.
"I had a baby earlier this year, and we have three little boys to raise. It's a gut-wrenching decision but one I am at peace with," Smith said. "The partner families, volunteers and staff at Habitat are some of the most amazing and inspirational people I've ever encountered. What they've built in Jefferson City and beyond is humbling."
"Kelly's dedication to River City Habitat and her professionalism have been an inspiration to us all," said Habitat's Board President Norm Robinson. "While we will miss Kelly and have fond memories of working with her. We wish her well and know she will have continued success in her new career."
When Smith joined the organization in 2006, the affiliate was finishing its 46th local home. As she leaves, River City Habitat for Humanity has just celebrated the start of its 100th local home with plans underway for local homes No. 101 and 102.
In her tenure, the organization has tithed more than $150,000 to build more than 50 Habitat homes internationally through Habitat's "a house for a house" program and has received a Thrivent Builds grant each year. Smith was also instrumental in the creation of a Community Resource Guide housed on Habitat's web page since 2013.
Smith plans to teach in the Communications Department at the State Technical College of Missouri in Linn two days a week and devote the rest of her time to her growing family.
"River City Habitat for Humanity will always have a cheerleader in me," Smith said. "I wish every good thing for this amazing group of people."