A thriving, united school community where all students and families feel supported, included, and inspired to make an impact.
Our Vison
Our Mission
We are dedicated to create an inclusive environment, inspire a passion for community service, provide opportunities to serve, and support students through hardship so every student can thrive.
ABOUT US
At Friends Helping Friends (FHF), we believe in the power of community and the potential of every student to thrive. Founded on the principles of compassion, collaboration, and commitment, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and the communities that support them.
Our story began with a simple yet profound idea: that friends, united by a common purpose, can create lasting positive change. We understand that education is a cornerstone of opportunity and that a strong, supportive community can uplift individuals and help them achieve their dreams. With this vision in mind, we embarked on a journey to provide essential resources, educational support, and community-building initiatives.
Meet our Board Members
Stephanie Wall Marrow
President & Co-Founder
Stephanie is a dynamic leader at the crossroads of leadership, marketing, and sales, bringing a wealth of knowledge honed through educational excellence and a proven track record in business development. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Northwood University and an MBA from Palm Beach Atlantic University. With a strong commitment to continuous learning, Stephanie has earned leadership certificates from prestigious institutions, including the University of Michigan, Duke University, the University of Virginia, and Cornell University. Her diverse skill set and strategic vision have driven growth and innovation in various organizations, making her a sought-after expert in her field. As the Vice Chairperson of Friends Helping Friends, Stephanie is inspired by the stories of her grandparents and her husband as young children, fueling her dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. In addition to her professional pursuits, she teaches meditation, yoga, and Pilates, with a focus on overall health and well-being, empowering individuals to lead balanced lives. Stephanie lives in Atlanta, GA, with her husband and two young children, where she balances her professional and personal passions.
Mary Lau
Chairman & Co-Founder
Mary Lau is a Co-Founder and dedicated volunteer at Friends Helping Friends (FHF). With over 20 years of experience in the financial industry, including a leadership role at PNC’s Asset Management Group managing over $50 billion in assets, Mary is a CFA Charterholder and actively serves on local CFA Society boards. Her passion for community service is demonstrated through her involvement with HandsOn Atlanta, local school PTAs, Stephen Ministry, and the Tax Assistance Program. Now focused on her family and community, she continues to champion initiatives that foster value and positive change.
Laquisha Smith
Co-Chair & Co-Founder
Laquisha brings both innovation & seasoned expertise to her role & volunteer efforts at Friends Helping Friends (FHF). With over 16 years in entrepreneurship, she has consistently channeled her professional business skills and entrepreneurial spirit into meaningful community work, especially with a deep passion for supporting youth. Laquisha is a wife & mother passionate about wellness and uplifting those who need a hand to feel confident, connected, and empowered.
Mariana de Marinis
Secretary & Co-Founder
Mariana De Marinis is a writer, cultural reporter and Spanish instructor. She has studied Modern Literature and Language at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she is from and has a specialization in Literary Theory. For the last 15 years she has been living in different geographies such as Buenos Aires, Mexico City, and now Atlanta, were she has lived since 2021. Since her arrival in the US - being a mother of two children- she has actively participated as a volunteer with SRS FHF group, assisting families in need by using her skills as a native Spanish speaker and her experience living in Latin American countries.
Michelle Krompegal
Treasurer
Michelle Krompegal is a dynamic nonprofit leader with more than ten years of experience in fundraising, donor engagement, and strategic planning. She has a strong track record of driving growth, surpassing fundraising targets, and fostering meaningful community partnerships. With a deep passion for advancing missions that create lasting impact, Michelle brings expertise in nonprofit management, grant writing, and corporate partnerships. Outside of her professional life, she holds an Associate of Arts in Graphic Design and enjoys hiking, cooking, and exploring new destinations with her family.