About Us
Who we are, what we believe, and why we serve.
Our Mission
Our Mission is to provide tools for success to the youth and parents who participate in our program. The program consists of educational enhancement, conflict resolution training, self-discipline, positive self-image, health education, mentors, and assistance to parents.
We hope that through providing quality services and programming we can also contribute to the community at large.
CSF's aim is to help people learn to be self-sufficient, not dependent. The most efficient way to accomplish this is through education and experience.
Who We Are
Nicole Smith is a mother of four with degrees in Business, Accounting, and Technology, ultimately receiving an MBA from Roosevelt University. She is a former tenured professor of Business and Accounting at Harold Washington College and adviser for Phi Beta Lambda.
Driven by a deep commitment to community, Nicole founded the Catherine Smith Foundation to create pathways for youth and families on Chicago's South Side — combining her academic expertise with a passion for service.
“Service with selflessness”
“If not me, then who”
“Prayer, Patience, Persistence, and Planning”
Kerrline, Gambia — Our Adopted Village
The Catherine Smith Foundation's commitment to community extends beyond Chicago's South Side. We have adopted Kerrline, a village in The Gambia, West Africa, as part of our global outreach mission. Through the generosity of our donors and volunteers, we have delivered direct humanitarian aid to the people of Kerrline — providing food, medicine, clothing, and shoes to families and children in need.
Our work in Kerrline reflects the same values that guide everything we do: service with selflessness, and the belief that every child — regardless of where they are born — deserves access to basic necessities and a chance to thrive.
From Our Service Day in Kerrline
Food
Nutritious food supplies delivered to families and children in the village.
Medicine
Essential medications and health supplies provided to community members.
Clothing & Shoes
Clothing and footwear distributed to adults and children throughout Kerrline.
Community Care
Hands-on support and relationship-building with village residents and leaders.
Looking Ahead: 2027 Infrastructure Goals
We are committed to making a lasting, sustainable impact in Kerrline. Before the end of 2027, the Catherine Smith Foundation plans to install two critical infrastructure projects that will transform daily life in the village:
Water Source / Bore Hole
A clean water bore hole to provide safe, reliable drinking water for the entire village — reducing waterborne illness and the burden of water collection, especially for women and children.
Solar Power Installation
A solar energy system to bring reliable electricity to Kerrline — enabling lighting, device charging, and powering community facilities for education and health services.
Your donation helps make these projects a reality. Every contribution brings clean water and light to Kerrline.
Support This WorkOur Philosophy
The Catherine Smith Foundation works to attack poverty, violence, unemployment, educational inequality, and stagnant personal growth through preparing our youth and strengthening families.
We believe that by meeting the needs of the individual and family, we also meet the needs of the community. Our holistic approach means we serve youth, parents, and community members — because lasting change requires the whole village.
Support Our Mission