The People Behind the Mission
Meet Our Team
Executive Director & Founder
Rose Smith
Executive Director & Founder
Rose Smith
Rose Smith is a mother, wife, entrepreneur, advocate, and visionary. She is a gun violence survivor, Survivor Membership Lead of Louisville's Moms Demand Action Chapter, a Grief Specialist, Board Member of SHUGG Cancer Foundation, Executive Director and Founder of the ACE Project, and self-proclaimed Queen of Peace.
After the tragic murder of her son, Rose birthed a new passion for social change. In honor of her son, Cory "Ace" Crowe, her spirit was led to establish the ACE Project, a safe place for youth and those impacted by gun violence and trauma. The ACE Project offers a variety of services and supports to the community as it seeks to be a source of hope and healing for others.
Rose is turning her pain into a powerful purpose. She is an advocate against gun violence, a voice of guidance for youth in the community, and a trusted ally for other mourning mothers. Her purpose is Peace "People Everywhere Acting Compassionately Everyday".
Youth Mentor & Facilities Coordinator
Walter Smith
Youth Mentor & Facilities Coordinator
Walter Smith
Walter Smith is an ordained minister and devoted community servant with over 30 years of experience working with youth and children. Known affectionately as a skilled handyman, Walter brings both practical expertise and heartfelt mentorship to The ACE Project's Men in the Making program, where he helps young men develop trades skills, confidence, and character.
Walter is the husband of ACE Project Founder and Executive Director Rose Smith, and together they share a deep commitment to healing and empowering their community. He is a passionate advocate against gun violence, using his faith, experience, and hands-on approach to guide the next generation toward a brighter future.
Program Director
E'Lesha Toomer
Program Director
E'Lesha Toomer
E'Lesha Toomer is a Louisville, Kentucky native, a wife, and the proud mother of four boys. As Program Director of The ACE Project, she oversees program development and serves as the lead facilitator for both the Academy of Child Entrepreneurship and the PROM (Positive Reinforcement Over Myself) Program. Her work is driven by a deep passion for seeing youth grow and thrive in their gifts and talents, and for empowering them to use those gifts to better themselves and their community.
She first joined The ACE Project in 2014 as a volunteer sewing instructor and became a full-time team member in 2022.
Men in the Making Program Director
Joshua Toomer
Men in the Making Program Director
Joshua Toomer
Joshua Toomer is a husband, father, licensed minister, high school business educator, entrepreneur, and dedicated community leader. As the facilitator of The ACE Project's Men in the Making program, Joshua pours his energy and experience into mentoring young men, equipping them with the life skills, discipline, and confidence they need to become positive forces in their families and communities.
Known for his high-energy presence and genuine ability to connect with the youth and families he serves.
Want to Join Our Team?
We are always looking for passionate volunteers and staff who want to make a real difference in the Louisville community.
Get in Touch