Shannon Smith seizes the moment to do something good

Shannon Smith took on the Covid pandemic as an opportunity to discover new, more impactful ways she could give back to underserved youth. As a lawyer, her ability to think quick on her feet and execute has shined from the court room to the virtual classroom as a Hands On Atlanta Civic Fellow and volunteer leader with the the Hands On Atlanta Disco (virtual Discovery) program.

Shannon recently shared her motivation to give back and what you can do to make a difference.

What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?

Youth education, especially in underserved communities. The children are our future. As a first-generation college graduate I understand the struggles that kids can go through and the importance of mentors. I say that knowing that I was still privileged, and imagine the need for those less privileged is even greater. I’ve been fortunate In having some great mentors and people who took a chance with me; it’s time for me to pay it forward.

What do you love most about the organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?

I love the enthusiasm and energy of the K-2 students despite our program being on Saturday mornings. So many of these kids are bright and I want to do my part to make sure they see it in themselves and stay on a good path. I can’t imagine being a kid these days. I remember calling friends on rotary phones; these days it’s snap chats and tweets and so easy to bully others when you can hide behind a screen.

“I’ve been fortunate In having some great mentors and people who took a chance with me; it’s time for me to pay it forward.”

— Shannon Smith

Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?

I don’t think I have one particular moment. Rather it’s just knowing every time you made a difference, even if it’s small. For kids to not want to leave after an hour of “Saturday school” is very rewarding.

Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.

Hands on Atlanta always has volunteer opportunities, and they fit a wide variety of interests. Before DISCO I volunteered for some urban farm projects and Books for Africa, which provides books for students in Africa. Hands on Atlanta makes it so easy - just go to their website, pick a cause, sign up, and show up.

Anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!

It’s so easy to say “I’m going to do X” and then get caught up in life - work, family, friends - that years go by and you just keep talking. Despite the challenges with Covid, I look at it as a blessing in disguise. It really prompted me to reevaluate and reprioritize things - it was the push I needed to stop talking about making changes and actually do it. Anyone can do it, but it takes time and sometimes a life changing event. Tomorrow may not come, so if there’s something good you’ve been wanting to do, just do it (to quote Nike).

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Inspired by Shannon’s story?

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