ReUse Systems founding Executive Director Naomi Smith will step down after leading the Geneva nonprofit through its launch and first year of operations, the organization announced Thursday.
Smith, who began the role in September 2025, will remain an adviser while the board searches for a new executive director.
ReUse Systems works to keep usable furniture, fixtures, equipment and building materials out of landfills and return them to productive use across Ontario County and the Finger Lakes.
During Smith's tenure, the organization partnered with Hobart and William Smith Colleges to recover furniture and deconstruction materials from Eaton Hall before the science building's demolition. ReUse Systems said the work prevented thousands of pounds of reusable material from entering the landfill.
The nonprofit also held two community pop-up sales, distributing recovered Eaton Hall items and community donations to residents, businesses and nonprofit organizations. It brought the Geneva Toy Library into the organization as a flagship program intended to expand families' access to toys while reducing waste.
ReUse Systems recently received $15,000 from the Wyckoff Family Foundation to build operational infrastructure for a permanent home where the organization and Geneva Toy Library can offer reusable goods to the public. The Geneva Rotary Club awarded another $500 to support the toy library program.
Board Chair Vinny Aliperti credited Smith with helping launch the organization and build its foundation. Smith said she was proud of what the organization had established and looked forward to supporting it in a different role.
The nonprofit has begun its search for a new executive director and posted a job description on its website.
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