The Service League of Cherokee County has named Marcie Smith, Executive Director of The Children’s Haven, as the recipient of the 2026 Annual Heritage of Hope Award, recognizing her extraordinary dedication to children and families in need.
Smith leads The Children’s Haven, a nonprofit serving children impacted by abuse and neglect and families at risk. Her work is deeply personal. As the daughter of a former Department of Family and Children Services caseworker, she grew up witnessing the realities faced by vulnerable children, experiences that shaped her lifelong calling to protect children and strengthen families. She often jokes that despite earning a degree in International Relations, working in child welfare “is in her DNA.”
Under Smith’s leadership, The Children’s Haven has expanded programs, strengthened services, and deepened community partnerships. In 2024 alone, the organization served more than 500 families, conducted over 1,300 in-home visits through prevention programs, and supported 345 children in foster care through CASA advocacy. She launched initiatives such as the Positive Childhood Alliance of Cherokee County and the CHIN UP mentorship program, while also expanding visitation services and caregiver support resources.
Known for her hands-on servant leadership, Smith regularly steps beyond her executive role through staffing visitations on weekends, transporting families to after-hours programs, and responding to needs at any hour. Her impact extends beyond her organization. Smith serves on the Georgia CASA Board and has held leadership roles within the Rotary Club of Canton, mobilizing volunteers and strengthening community partnerships. Whether professionally or civically, her focus remains the same: ensuring children experience safety, stability, and hope. Through her compassion, leadership, and relentless commitment, Marcie Smith embodies the very spirit of the award and the future she is working every day to build for children.
The League also recognized two outstanding finalists for the 2026 award: Dr. Debra Murdock and Chief Eddie Robinson, both respected leaders whose service and commitment have made meaningful contributions to the well-being of the Cherokee County community.
The Service League of Cherokee County presents the Heritage of Hope Award to honor individuals whose service brings lasting, positive change to the lives of children and families in the community. The award recognizes leaders who go beyond their professional roles to demonstrate compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening families, protecting children, and building a more hopeful future for Cherokee County. Through this recognition, the League also seeks to inspire others to serve and to shine a light on the powerful impact one person’s dedication can have on an entire community.