SML GIVES inc is proud to serve Franklin, Bedford, & Pittsylvania Counties
About SML Gives Inc.
Neighbor supporting neighbor to end local hunger
SML Gives inc. unites neighbors, businesses, and the community in the fight against hunger, ensuring no one is left behind and no one goes to bed hungry
Building Relationships
Through donations, community events, and volunteer opportunities, SML Gives inc. believes relationships are central to a strong community.
Feeding the Community
At SML Gives inc., we believe that everyone has the right to essential nutrition. We understand that life's challenges can sometimes be a barrier. We are here to support our community in meeting their basic needs.
SML Gives inc. Founder
Donate Now
Your contribution can help us provide food, shelter, and medical care to those in need. No donation is too small, and every dollar counts.
Volunteer With Us
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a difference in your community. Whether it's serving meals, organizing events, or providing support, we need your help.
Spread the Word
Help us raise awareness about our cause by sharing our mission with your friends and family. Follow us on social media and invite others to join our community.
Become a Partner
Collaborate with us to make a greater impact. We welcome partnerships with businesses, organizations, and individuals who share our values and goals.
Attend Our Events
Join us for our upcoming events and help us raise funds and awareness for our cause. From charity walks to benefit concerts, there's something for everyone.
Join Our Mailing List
Stay up-to-date on our latest news, events, and initiatives by joining our mailing list. Sign up today and never miss an opportunity to support our mission.
SML Gives inc. Vice President
Meet Lauren
Vice President | SML Gives Inc.
Owner, Magnum Point Marina
Raised in Franklin County, Virginia, Lauren grew up with a deep appreciation for community, hospitality, and hard work. She spent her entire career in the restaurant and service industry before taking over the operations of Magnum Point Marina, one of Smith Mountain Lake’s most beloved establishments. The marina quickly became not just a business, but a family-led hub of connection — with Lauren’s mother serving as the kitchen manager and the heart of the operation.
Lauren’s path to nonprofit leadership began in 2021, when she opened the doors of Magnum Point Marina to support a small holiday food drive organized by her best friend, Joey Donovant. What started as a simple act of generosity grew each year, evolving into a powerful community tradition. In December 2024, Lauren co-hosted the Christmas Benefit at Magnum, helping raise more than $26,000 in a single night. That moment of impact became the catalyst for launching SML Gives Inc.
In 2025, Lauren joined the founding leadership team of SML Gives Inc. as Vice President. She brings a grounded, community-driven spirit to the organization, shaped by years of serving neighbors across the lake. Known affectionately as “queen bee,” Lauren champions local partnerships, supports regional nonprofits, and ensures that the mission of SML Gives stays rooted in compassion and connection.
Through her work at Magnum Point Marina and SML Gives Inc, Lauren remains committed to strengthening the fabric of Smith Mountain Lake — one meal, one neighbor, and one act of generosity at a time.
SML Gives inc. Board of Directors
Dr. Brian Alexander
Dr. Brian Alexander
Dr. Brian Alexander
Detour Dental
Dr. Brian Alexander is a native to Franklin County and practices General Dentistry out of Union Hall, Virginia. He brings a strong commitment to the community and the shared belief that no one should go to bed hungry.
Timothy Smothers
Dr. Brian Alexander
Dr. Brian Alexander
SML Gives Inc
Mr. Smothers resides at Smith Mountain Lake and retired from a long career with the Kroger Executive Leadership Team. He has served on the board of directors for the United Way of Roanoke Valley and leads the board of SML Gives Inc. as the Board Chair
Melanie Burnette
Dr. Brian Alexander
Melanie Burnette
SML Gives Inc
Melanie has deep roots at Smith Mountain Lake and understands the importance of community. Raised in Franklin County, Melanie has a background in journalism and marketing. She serves on the board of directors for SML Gives Inc where she strengthens our organization's presence.
Melanie Eames
Dr. Lisa Deyerle
Melanie Burnette
Napoli Restaurant Group
Melanie and her husband Brian manage the kitchens of Napoli Cowboy and Napoli By Lake. Having an extensive background in feeding the community, Melanie designs and leads our special events and food service for our annual holiday benefit.
Robert Santmyer
Robert Santmyer
Robert Santmyer
PenBay Technology Group
Bob Santmyer and his wife Andrea have been residents at Smith Mountain Lake (SML) since 2015. Bob owns and operates a service-disabled veteran-owned small business headquartered in Union Hall, providing technology solutions to the federal government (DoD and Federal Civilian Agencies). Bob joins SML Gives Inc after managing a food ministry in Northern Virginia that provided hot meal services for those in need.
John H. Aull
Robert Santmyer
Shanna Wright
Aull Paint Company
John, the Board Treasurer, is a founding member of SML Gives Inc and recently retired from his family's commercial painting business, Aull Paint Co. After serving on several boards throughout his career, John was one of the trailblazers and organizing founders of SML Gives Inc. With John's quick wit and charm, he focuses on donor stewardship and growing impactful relationships that connect businesses to the community.
2025 Holiday Silent Auction
Our Benefit Auction is NOW LIVE!
Bidding closes on December 13th @ 8:30 PM
Winners announced at the benefit!
All proceeds benefit SML Gives Inc's food delivery program for homebound neighbors facing hunger!