After nearly five years as executive director at Coordinated Assistance Ministries, Monday will be Dennine Smith’s last day at the helm.
According to a CAM press release, Smith will join her husband, Rev. Dr. William J. Smith, moving to Atlanta, Georgia, where he will serve as senior pastor of Wheat Street Baptist Church.
A search committee of community leaders has already been formed to find another candidate to fill Smith’s seat, according to the release, and Melanie Wagoner — the organization’s Day Shelter manager — will stay on in the meantime.
Since 2019, Smith has served in a leadership role at CAM, which provides assistance and resources to individuals and families in need of housing and economic stability.
Smith also oversaw several projects during her time at CAM, including the creation of the Howard County Connect transportation service in 2021 and the opening of the organization’s new Union Street facility in June 2022.
During the building dedication, Smith told the Tribune it was a monumental step in CAM’s 30-plus year history in Howard County.
“We want to equip people,” Smith said at the time. “We want them to move forward so they can make a difference and grow and use this place as a catapult to get to the next level. … This new building makes that possible.”
And last month — less than three years after the dedication of the building at 625 N. Union St. — Smith and other officials were able to take full ownership after an outpouring of community support and a handful of anonymous donations.
“We are here to help people, to empower people, to serve people and to do it in a way that honors God,” she told the crowd that day. “And so, under God’s guidance, we did it.”
And because of her work at CAM, Smith was recognized earlier this year with the Jefferson Award from Indianapolis news station WRTV.
According to WRTV’s website, the Jefferson Award recognizes men and women in Central Indiana who are making a difference in their communities.
“I feel extremely honored,” Smith told the Tribune shortly after receiving the award. “I always hope that my efforts to work with our clients have a positive impact on their lives.”
As for her time at CAM, Smith stated in the press release that she was proud of CAM’s presence in the community, and was grateful to everyone she has helped over the years.
“I am confident that I have fulfilled the mission God has given me during my time in this role,” Smith said in the release. “So I close this chapter with gratitude and joy.”
Smith added that the CAM team accomplished so many goals during Smith’s time there, and she appreciates the community that has stood by her side.
“The many churches, businesses, community organizations and individuals who have supported the purchase of our new building, transportation service needs, hygiene kits, emergency food banks and the other projects over the years have played such an important role in our success. Smith wrote in the release. “I extend my sincere gratitude for the support and partnership of our community.”
CAM asks anyone who would like to send well wishes for Smith to post them on the “CAM Hope” Facebook page.
For more information on how you can support the ministry or make a donation, visit camhope.org. You can also send your gift to PO Box 523, Kokomo, IN 46903.
