Last month, Rose Smith, Executive Director and founder of ACE Project (Acting Compassionately Everyday), traveled to Washington to receive the Oresa Napper-Williams Survivor Policy & Advocacy Award, presented by Community Justice. The award recognizes leaders who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to supporting survivors of gun violence and advancing safer, more just communities. This year’s recognition carried special significance as Community Justice marked 10 years of work to end gun violence.
For Rose, the honor represents more than recognition for advocacy work — it reflects a journey shaped by unimaginable loss and a deep commitment to healing others. Rose’s path into violence prevention advocacy began after the loss of her son, Cory “Ace” Crowe, who was killed by gun violence in 2014. In the months that followed, Rose searched for answers and justice while carrying the weight of profound grief. For an entire year after Cory’s death, she stood on the corner where his life was taken on the 25th day of every month. What began as a place of mourning eventually became the foundation for something greater—the ACE Project.
Founded in Louisville, Kentucky, ACE Project was created to support families impacted by gun violence and trauma while equipping youth with tools, connections, and mentorship to help them build brighter futures. Under Rose’s leadership, the organization has grown into a trusted community hub and safe space.
“ACE Project is about transforming hurt into hope and healing,” Rose said. “We are not just responding to violence — we are creating opportunities for healing, leadership, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and prevention.”
ACE Project helps individuals and families move from hurt toward healing. Rose’s work focuses not only on addressing the immediate impacts of violence, but also on interrupting cycles of trauma by creating positive pathways for young people.
Community Justice recognized Rose not only for her advocacy, but also for her dedication to honoring her son’s legacy. In their award announcement, Community Justice shared:
“This award recognizes your leadership and dedication in support of survivors of gun violence. We also want to uplift and amplify your incredible efforts to honor the legacy of your son Cory ‘Ace’ Crowe as well as your work at the ACE Project to protect and uplift youth and support survivors.”
Rose accepted the award on April 21during the Awards Gala held at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, where six leaders and changemakers were celebrated for their efforts to create a safer and more just future for generations to come.
Rose said, “Being recognized nationally in Washington, D.C. was surreal and empowering. Standing in a room with leaders, advocates, and survivors from across the country reminded me that our voices matter. To receive an award at the Smithsonian was an honor I will never forget. It represented not just my work, but the resilience of every family impacted by violence who chooses healing over hopelessness.”
For the Louisville community and beyond, Rose Smith’s recognition serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of profound loss, compassion and determination can create lasting change. Through ACE Project, Rose continues to transform grief into purpose, helping survivors find healing while building hope for the next generation.
So what’s next for ACE Project?
“Growth, expansion, and a deeper impact,” Rose said. “We want to continue building programs that combine healing with economic opportunity, mentorship, and leadership development for youth and families impacted by violence and trauma. Our vision moving forward includes expanding survivor support services, strengthening youth entrepreneurship programs. We are committed to continuing the work of changing lives and building peace, one family at a time.”
