Meet our directors
COREY WADE - president & founder
Corey Wade, Founder and President of Smiles on Faces, serves as a Battalion Chief with Norfolk Fire-Rescue. With more than 20 years of experience in the fire service, he has dedicated his career to leading firefighters, mentoring youth, and advancing recruitment, leadership, and professional development within his organization.
Chief Wade holds a bachelor's degree in Fire Science and Business Administration. Inspired by his passion for service, he founded Smiles on Faces to create meaningful opportunities for children in underserved communities, empowering them to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Chief Wade believes every child deserves the opportunity to dream, succeed, and thrive. Through Smiles on Faces, he is committed to creating lasting, positive impacts that inspire hope and help shape brighter futures.
marcus wade - Executive director
Marcus Wade serves as the Executive Director of Smiles on Faces. A proud Hampton University alumnus, he holds both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in Sports Medicine. Through his passion for youth development, he provides leadership, coaching, and mentorship by creating impactful programs, camps, and community initiatives that empower young people to succeed.
Mr. Wade is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of youth by focusing on their individual needs, nurturing their potential, and encouraging them to pursue a brighter future. He believes that every child can achieve success when given the opportunity, guidance, and support they deserve.
Driven by his own life experiences, Mr. Wade is dedicated to creating opportunities for today's youth that he wishes had been available to him growing up, helping inspire the next generation to reach their full potential.
barbara latimer - Treasurer
Barbara Latimer serves as the Treasurer of Smiles on Faces. A retired corporate manager with more than 38 years of experience, she has built a distinguished career in commercial and consumer sales, project management, and customer service. Today, she continues her passion for serving others as a teacher in the local public school system.
Ms. Latimer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from Clayton State University. Drawing from both her professional experience and personal journey, she understands the importance of addressing the mental and emotional well-being of children alongside their educational needs.
Having personally benefited from organizations like Smiles on Faces during her childhood, Ms. Latimer is deeply committed to the organization's mission. As she shares, "I was one of the kids who benefited from organizations like this one. I firmly support its mission and look forward to the hard work ahead." Her dedication reflects her belief that every child deserves the support, encouragement, and opportunities needed to thrive.
