Bert Brantley – Savannah, GA
Jimmy Smith – Rome, GA
Welcome Bert Brantley and Jimmy Smith!
Athens, GA (May 27, 2025) — Extra Special People, Inc.(esp), a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating transformative experiences for people of all abilities and their families, proudly announces the appointment of Bert Brantley of Savannah, GA, and Jimmy Smith of Rome, GA, to its National Board of Directors.
The esp National Board is composed of visionary volunteer leaders who provide governance, fiduciary accountability, and strategic oversight to support esp’s mission and long-term vision. In addition to making personal financial commitments, each board member contributes their time, networks, and professional expertise to help esp grow and thrive.
Jimmy Smith is the Managing Director of Investments at Benjamin F. Edwards and brings decades of leadership experience and community engagement to the board. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the YMCA of Rome and Floyd County (Past President) and has previously served with the Boys & Girls Club of Northwest Georgia and the South Rome Redevelopment Corporation. Smith is also a member of the esp Rome Champion Board and serves as Chairman of the esp Rome 1818 Capital Campaign.
Bert Brantley, President & CEO of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in state government and economic development. Prior to his current role, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp and Chief Operating Officer at the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Brantley currently serves on several civic and institutional boards, including the Savannah-Georgia Convention Center Authority, the University of Georgia School of Public and International Affairs Alumni Board, and Union Mission.
“We are deeply grateful to all of our National Board Members whose vision and leadership allow esp to expand our mission and reach more families each year,” said Laura Hope Whitaker, CEO of esp. “We’re thrilled to welcome Bert and Jimmy to this exceptional group of changemakers and are honored to have their voices and talents shaping the future of esp.”
“esp is a family passion for us, our daughters serve in Atlanta and Athens and my wife is on the Savannah local board,” said Brantley. “I am thrilled to join the National Board with these amazing leaders, and hopeful that our work will lead to more and more families experiencing the life changing opportunities offered through this incredible organization.”
“I’m excited and honored to join esp’s National Board of Directors. This remarkable organization holds a very special place in our family’s heart,” said Smith. “I’ve been amazed at the impact esp continues to make in communities across the southeast. It’s an organization that truly lives its mission to change communities for the better.”
With the addition of Smith and Brantley, esp continues to strengthen its leadership team to meet the growing needs of families across Georgia and beyond.
About Extra Special People, Inc.
Founded in 1986, Extra Special People, Inc. (esp) began with a simple summer camp for children with disabilities. Today, esp operates in four communities, serving over 1,200 families through wrap-around programs and services that provide support, purpose, and belonging for individuals of all abilities. Learn more: www.espyouandme.org
