Behind the Inspiration...
From the very beginning, Bester & Smithson Community Development Corporation was born out of a deep passion for helping others. What started as a simple act of compassion soon became the foundation for a much greater mission.
Snowena Bester once provided shelter, food, and support to homeless women and children during a time of crisis. Through this experience, she witnessed firsthand the overwhelming challenges many young mothers face when they lack stable housing, guidance, and community support.
During that time, Snowena recognized a significant gap in available resources for women who are young, homeless, and navigating the responsibility of raising a child on their own. That moment of awareness sparked a deeper calling—to create an organization that could provide the support, stability, and opportunities these families desperately needed.
From that experience, Bester & Smithson Community Development Corporation was established with a mission to uplift individuals and families by creating pathways to stability, empowerment, and long-term success.
MEET SNOWENA BESTER
Snowena Bester, CEO
Snowena Bester is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bester & Smithson Community Development Corporation and the visionary behind House of Solace, a transformative initiative dedicated to supporting teenage and single mothers through housing, mentorship, and life-stabilizing resources.
Snowena’s commitment to service began at a young age. By the time she entered college, she had already dedicated more than a decade to volunteer work within her community. Determined to deepen her understanding of the social and psychological challenges many families face, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Georgia State University.
While in college, Snowena continued her passion for community service by mentoring adolescent boys alongside her husband, creating a safe and structured environment where young men could learn, grow, and build confidence. What began as a small effort quickly expanded as more youth and families sought guidance and support.
Through this work, Snowena gained firsthand insight into the challenges many young men face and how often they are underserved when it comes to mentorship and positive community support. This experience shaped her belief that while House of Solace is designed to uplift mothers and their children, young men should not be excluded from opportunities to grow, heal, and succeed within supportive community environments.
During this same season of service, Snowena also encountered many homeless mothers and children who lacked access to stable housing and meaningful support systems. These experiences revealed the urgent need for comprehensive resources that empower mothers to rebuild their lives and create stable futures for their children.
Having once been a teen mother herself, Snowena understands firsthand the challenges many young women face when trying to build stability for their families. With the support of mentors and a strong community around her, she was able to build a life that once felt uncertain—getting married, welcoming her second child, earning her bachelor’s degree, and transitioning into her professional career.
Inspired by the women who mentored and supported her during that season of her life, Snowena committed herself to becoming that same source of strength and opportunity for others.
Today, through House of Solace, she is working to create communities where mothers are not only supported, but equipped with the mentorship, stability, and resources needed to thrive and build lasting legacies for their families.
Meet BOARD
Marie Planas, RN, CHPN
Registered Nurse and hospice care professional with over a decade of experience providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Marie brings healthcare expertise and a deep commitment to supporting vulnerable families and strengthening community wellness.
Yokaira John, Secretary
Community advocate and office management professional who brings valuable lived experience and a strong understanding of the challenges many families face. Yokaira helps ensure the organization remains grounded in the voices and needs of the community it serves.
Ariel Davis
A sworn law enforcement officer serving within the Sheriff’s Office in a Human Resources leadership role. Ariel brings expertise in workforce management, organizational policy, and employee relations, along with a deep commitment to community service and supporting initiatives that strengthen families and communities.
Marquita Reed
Chief Executive Officer of a hospice organization and experienced healthcare leader. Marquita brings executive leadership, operational expertise, and a passion for improving the quality of life for individuals and families in need.
Brandon Tate, SSgt, U.S. Air Force
A dedicated United States Air Force Staff Sergeant and veteran leader who brings a strong commitment to service, discipline, and community impact. Brandon offers valuable insight in leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused planning that supports the organization’s efforts to strengthen families and build stable communities.