How It Started

 

Erin Smith

Founder

Erin’s journey as the founder of Embrace Humanity is a testament to her lifelong commitment to humanitarian work and her deep-rooted compassion for those in need. Growing up in a military family, her experiences living across the country and around the world exposed her to diverse cultures and challenges. Her Native American heritage, specifically from the Muskogee Creek higher Wind clan, combined with her Scottish ancestry, has profoundly shaped her identity and her dedication to serving others.

From a young age, Erin's involvement in humanitarian work began with heartfelt visits to nursing homes, where she brought joy to residents through song. This early exposure to the needs of others laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Her time as an exchange student opened her eyes to the struggles faced by people in different countries, fueling her desire to become a missionary and provide support to those in dire situations.

Erin started her humanitarian mission by working with a homeless ministry, where she provided critical medical and dental supplies to those in need. As her passion grew, she expanded her efforts internationally, traveling to various countries including India, Nepal, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Romania, Nigeria, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Greece, Haiti, and Uganda. In Haiti and Uganda, she dedicated extensive time to addressing water scarcity by coordinating the installation of water wells and assisting in medical and dental clinics.

One of the defining moments in her life came after the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti, where Erin risked her safety to protect a young girl during a violent incident. This experience further solidified her commitment to humanitarian work. Additionally, Erin’s response to natural disasters closer to home, such as Hurricanes Katrina, Fran, Sandy, Florence, and Helene, showcases her unwavering dedication to helping communities rebuild.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented a significant challenge for Erin, as travel restrictions hindered her ability to assist in Uganda. The isolation brought on by the pandemic deeply affected her, knowing that vulnerable populations would be unable to receive the help they desperately required. This period of reflection led her to temporarily step away from Embrace Uganda and return to her roots in the dental field.

Following Hurricane Helene, Erin was once again on the front lines, witnessing the tremendous need for aid in her community. It was during this time that she found new partners in Josh and Benna, and together they established Embrace Humanity. The organization embodies Erin’s vision of extending help to individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assaults, child trafficking, and other humanitarian crises globally.

Erin’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her heart for those in need continues to grow, inspiring countless others to join her in the mission to embrace humanity and create a positive impact across the world.