LETTER: Boys & Girls Club welcomes new CEO

As a nation, we are in the midst of unprecedented and challenging times, and as a movement, Boys & Girls Clubs throughout the country share in the many challenges and opportunities before us. But, just as the American spirit always shines brightest during doubt, so does the spirit and mission of Boys & Girls Clubs. That spirit is exemplified in the selfless leaders willing to step up and serve.

With this in mind, I am pleased to announce that the board of directors has unanimously named Jill Smith as our next chief executive officer. I am fully confident Jill is the right leader to support our organization as we move forward. She began her new role on Sept. 1, singularly focused on having an even greater impact on the children and teens we serve.

Jill is a mission-driven executive with more than two decades of leadership experience across nonprofit, business, and community-focused organizations. She has been widely recognized for her strategic vision, strong operational and financial stewardship, and her ability to build teams and partnerships.

Key highlights of her background include:

• Advocacy & Nonprofit Leadership: As former Executive Director of the Western Organic Dairy Producers’ Alliance, Jill led fundraising, membership engagement, and national advocacy efforts.

• Funding & Growth: Through her consulting and grant-writing work, she has secured more than $12 million in funding for organizations across the country. She has also served as a USDA Grant Reviewer.

• Business & Community Roots: Raised on a farm in Othello, Washington, Jill previously built and operated multiple agricultural enterprises. She, her husband, and their children still operate a local farming and livestock business.

The search process was conducted over several months by Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s CEO Search Team, in partnership with a search committee led by myself and dedicated board members.

"Every child deserves a safe place to learn, grow, and discover their potential. The Boys & Girls Club is one of the strongest examples of a community coming together to support our youth. I’m excited to partner with our staff, board, families, and local leaders as we continue expanding opportunities for young people across the Columbia Basin." — Jill Smith, incoming CEO

We are incredibly excited about Jill joining the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin family and look forward to your interaction with her as she defines her vision for our Clubs.

Thank you for your continued support, generosity, and dedication. Without you, we would not be able to support the many children and teens who enter our doors each day.

Kelly Price

Board Chair, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin