Lois Smith joined the United Way team in July 2025, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector to her role as Executive Director. Throughout her career, Lois has focused on advancing social impact initiatives - working with organizations committed to improving the health and quality of life for vulnerable adults, families, children, and the communities they call home. Her expertise spans operations and resource management, organizational development, strategic and operational planning, and government affairs. She has held key leadership roles with organizations such as: AARP, Campaign for Equal Justice, Family Promise, WA Public Health, and the Commission on Aging. In addition to her organizational work, Lois has consulted with a range of nonprofits and is the founder/creator of The Pocket Guide—a widely recognized resource for people experiencing homelessness that has generated national, regional, and local public awareness & engagement opportunities through multi-mediums.
Known for her collaborative leadership style and deep commitment to service, Lois is driven by a core belief that every person, regardless of circumstance, deserves the opportunity to live a healthy, dignified life. As Executive Director of United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties, she is honored to work alongside volunteers, donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to advance opportunity and equity across the region.