LAS VEGAS – Linda Smith, a renowned fundraising icon and disability advocate, marks an extraordinary milestone of 40 years dedicated to revolutionizing nonprofit fundraising and community relations at Opportunity Village’s unveiling of The Linda Smith and Christopher Smith Family Campus monument sign at the Magical Forest tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 29, at 6 p.m.
During the tree lighting ceremony, Opportunity Village’s six-acre campus on Oakey Boulevard will officially be named The Linda Smith and Christopher Smith Family Campus. The name honors Smith and her son Christopher, who had Down syndrome and passed away in 2019.
Her impact on Opportunity Village and other nonprofits is immeasurable. During her 38-year tenure as vice president of the Opportunity Village Foundation in Las Vegas, she spearheaded campaigns that raised a staggering half billion dollars. Under her visionary leadership, Opportunity Village transformed from a small, little-known charity into one of the most beloved and respected nonprofits in the country, providing life-changing programs and services for thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Opportunity Village continues to benefit from Smith’s innovative ideas, including The Magical Forest, an outdoor holiday spectacular that grosses about $2.5 million annually, and The Las Vegas Great Santa Run, a record-breaking world challenge event featuring thousands of runners dressed in Santa garb. Smith also created Santa Runs and Magical Forests in California, Florida, Texas, Gibraltar, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Throughout her career, Smith has received numerous accolades for her groundbreaking work including The Nevada System of Higher Education “Distinguished Nevadan Award” for exceptional service to the state and nation and all mankind. Most recently, on Nov. 12, the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada, in conjunction with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, awarded Smith with the prestigious “Governors Lifetime Achievement Award.” She was also named “Fundraising Executive of the Year” by the National Society of Fundraising Executives.
About Linda Smith
Linda Smith is an internationally renowned fundraising icon, disability advocate, motivational speaker, nonprofit consultant, and humanitarian. With a career spanning over 40 years, she has raised more than $1 billion for charitable causes and revolutionized the principles of nonprofit fundraising, community relations, and event management. Smith’s unwavering passion and fearless approach have made her a leading force in the nonprofit sector, inspiring organizations and individuals around the world to embrace their full potential and create lasting change. For more information, visit lindaslife.com.
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