Younique Foundation Names Johns Creek Woman As Director

JOHNS CREEK, GA — The Younique Foundation, a nonprofit that fights for the eradication of child sexual abuse and its effects, has named Lynda Lee Smith of Johns Creek as its new chief development officer.

The Younique Foundation was founded in 2014 and has offices in Utah and Georgia. Smith begins Tuesday, June 1, and will be located at the Foundation’s Alpharetta office.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lynda to our executive team,” said Chris Yadon, executive director of The Younique Foundation. “Her rich experience combined with competency and passion will inspire a tremendous amount of social good that will help survivors heal and protect children.”

Smith brings a wealth of experience with her from many sectors including shelter, health, child advocacy and economic development. Most recently, she served as senior director of corporate relations for Habitat for Humanity International, where she managed a team of more than 20 development officers and project managers responsible for up to $100 million annually. She developed and managed global partnerships with numerous Fortune 100 companies including Delta, MasterCard, The Home Depot, JP Morgan Chase, Credit Suisse, and Coca-Cola.

Prior to joining Habitat for Humanity International, she was CEO for International Advocates for Children, working directly with high-ranking decision-makers from other countries overseeing orphans and vulnerable children. She has also worked with both the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society.

“I am excited to be serving the incredible mission at The Younique Foundation," Smith said. "Breaking the cycle of abuse among the world’s most vulnerable—our children—is not only impactful, but life-altering for millions. Giving children the opportunity to flourish and live their purpose without the weight of abuse trauma is one of the greatest gifts we can give. It is an honor to join in this tremendous effort with such a distinguished team.”

A self-described servant leader, Smith’s community service includes chairwoman of the Johns Creek Convention and Visitors Bureau board of directors since 2015 and serving as an advisor to several community organizations. Smith has also served on boards for museums and local health organizations.

In addition to her nonprofit and community work, she is a published author and public speaker. An award-winning executive, she is the recipient of Georgia’s “Top 40 under 40 Business Executives” by Georgia Trend Magazine and the national Ford Motor Company’s “Life in Drive” Award.

Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Valdosta State University. A native of south Georgia, she has resided in Johns Creek since 1997 with her husband, Doug. They have one daughter, Lauryn, who is a junior at the honors college at The University of Alabama.