SMYRNA, Georgia — The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation in 2025 surpassed 2024’s fundraising total by roughly 30% and its 2025 projections by 6%, capping the best year in its more than 15-year history.
The foundation also increased participation in its Shop With a Hero event, which began more than 20 years ago, by nearly 22%, achieving two goals: serving at least 100 students and helping students at both the elementary and middle school levels.
“Because of this banner year, we were able to have an even greater impact in the Smyrna community,” Smyrna Public Safety Foundation Executive Director Denise Czarnik said. “Our work would not be possible without the generosity of the community, and their support truly shows that Smyrna supports public safety.”
The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation capped its action-oriented year with its annual Shop With a Hero initiative, which began more than 20 years ago and connects area students in need with first responders.
“We wouldn’t be as successful as we were last year without the support of the community,” said Paul Powers, president of Powers Electrical Solutions and Smyrna Public Safety Foundation board chair. “While we’re excited about the opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments, we know that our work is never done, and we’re excited to engage the community in the new year.”
The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation was established in 2009 as a non-profit to support the professional and community endeavors of Smyrna’s public safety agencies. This foundation also promotes and recognizes the efforts of Smyrna public safety employees in the community.
“The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation is invaluable to our mission, and we are deeply grateful for all it does to support our firefighters and the broader public safety community,” Smyrna Fire Chief Brian Marcos said. “We are often called to serve people on some of the most difficult days of their lives, but knowing this community stands behind us provides the encouragement and strength we need to remain focused, compassionate and at our very best.”
The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation’s initiatives include its Benevolence Fund, which helps first responders pay for unexpected expenses, and free counseling sessions for first responders.
“Knowing that this community has our back makes a meaningful difference every time our officers respond to a call,” Smyrna Police Chief Keith Zgonc said. “The work we do is often challenging and demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding. The continued support we receive from our residents and partners like the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation strengthens our commitment to serve and helps make Smyrna an even better place to live and work.”
To build community, the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation raises money as a series of community events, including a gala in March, a golf tournament in April and Jazz Under the Gazebo in November.
“Smyrna, Georgia, is a special place, and we have the best first responders anywhere in the country. The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation serves a critical role in supporting these exceptional men and women who protect us every day,” Mayor Derek Norton said. “We can’t thank the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation enough for the hard work they put in every day to both support and connect the community with our Fire, Police, and EMT personnel, and to make sure those who are protecting the citizens of Smyrna know that they are appreciated.”
The Smyrna Public Safety Foundation’s next fundraising event is its gala on March 5. To buy tickets, visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/MR7/.
For more information, visit SmyrnaPSF.org.
