The Atlanta Children's Shelter has named Christie Smith as its new development director.

Smith has experience working on gubernatorial and presidential campaigns and has volunteered at the shelter. She assumes that post at a time of change for the organization. The downtown shelter is about to undergo a major renovation and the nonprofit plans to open a new shelter in Gwinnett County.

The  Atlanta Children's Shelter, which provides day care, support and an education curriculum for homeless children and social services for their families, will hold its annual Holiday House event from Dec. 12 through Dec. 16 at North Avenue Presbyterian Church, 607 Peachtree St. N.E.  At the event, parents can shop for warm clothing and gifts.