Pinellas County — Fee Smith is a dynamo when it comes to helping others.
She is the founder of the non-profit Diamondstud Foundation Inc. which she began about 10 years ago. Its’ mission includes many projects.
“We integrate veterans, displaced families, homeless individuals, and ex-offenders back into society,” Smith said. “With the help of sponsors and donations.”
The foundation feeds the homeless throughout the community and also makes monthly visits to St. Vincent de Paul CARES, providing hot home-cooked, four-course meals.
All food costs come from out of the foundation’s pocket. Smith is hopeful for more community support to make more meal visits.
The group also provides shoes, clothing, and toiletries to those in need.
A realtor by profession, Smith works with veterans who are trying to purchase their first home.
She depends on the work of volunteers including a pair she calls, with a smile, her two right hands.
“Michael Baker is the vice president,” she said. “I call him the enforcer because whenever ideas come up he makes sure they get done.”
Then there’s Dominique Scott.
“She is our chief operating officer,” Smith said. “And when the enforcer says ‘get it done’ she makes sure it gets done. And she’s also our head cook.”
And as to why she cares so much for really basic strangers…
“Because I was at one time that basic stranger,” she said. “I was almost homeless myself and being in a position where you’re almost homeless you can look at people and be like I know where you come from. I know where that was.”
Diamondstud Foundation also works with St. Vincent de Paul on many programs including “adopt a family for Christmas”
“(It’s) the best feeling,” Smith said. “Knowing that you’ve done something to help someone as long as you walk this path of life.”. Read more here.
