Curtis Smith has resigned from his position as chairman of Chilton County United Way.

Smith will remain on United Way’s board of directors, and his successor has already been determined: Van Forrester, manager of Alabama Power’s Clanton business office.

Smith said he wanted to be able to spend more time at home with his wife, Margie.

Life of service: Curtis Smith has served as chairman of the United Way Board of Directors since 2000.

“My life has been a life of service,” Smith said. “When I wake up in the morning, I try to think of somebody I can help.”

Smith was among those involved who helped Harry Fox found the local chapter of the organization in 1985.

Fox served as the first chairman for Chilton County United Way until 2000, when Smith took over the volunteer position.

Smith has been a member of the group’s board of directors since 1985 and will continue in that role.

Chilton County United Way’s annual fundraising goal was $75,000 when it was first begun. By the time Smith stepped into the chairman’s role, the goal had grown to about $200,000.

Smith estimates that Chilton County United Way has raised about $1 million during his time as chairman.

“I’ve enjoyed helping people,” Smith said. “I hope I’ve been able to help some people.”

Smith has been involved with many other efforts in Chilton County, including: Emergency Assistance Center, SPAN, PEECH, Clanton Lions Club, among the founders of the Chilton County YMCA and current board member and Mulberry Baptist Church deacon.

Smith served as a state representative for 20 years and has worked in education for 50 years–from teacher and principal at Isabella to director of the LeCroy Career Technical Center. He is currently in his third term on the Chilton County Board of Education.

Smith and his wife have been married for 58 years. They have three sons: Greg, Vince and Andy, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Smith thanked God for the “privilege of service,” the board members he has worked with through the years, and everyone who has donated to United Way.

Local agencies and activities supported by Chilton County United Way include: Chilton County Emergency Assistance Center, Chilton-Shelby Mental Health, Chilton County YMCA, Habitat for Humanity of Autauga and Chilton Counties, Chilton County Board of Education, Chilton Education Foundation, SPAN of Chilton County, American Red Cross, Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center, CareNet Pregnancy Resource Center, Family Sunshine Center, Alabama Cooperative Extension, West Central Alabama Rehab, Chilton County Department of Human Resources, Arthritis Foundation, Operation: Santa Claus, Toys for Kids, Raleigh’s Place, Humane Society of Chilton County, Girl Scouts of Chilton County and Boy Scouts of Chilton County.