LifeMoves Names Fred K. Smith as Chief Philanthropy Officer

Seasoned fundraising executive to lead philanthropic team, strategy and revenue growth

SANTA CLARA, CA — LifeMoves, Silicon Valley’s largest provider of interim housing and supportive services, announced the recent appointment of Fred K. Smith as Chief Philanthropy Officer (CPO). Smith will report to the Chief Executive Officer and serve as a member of the organization’s executive leadership team.

In this role, Smith will oversee all fundraising and philanthropic operations, including major gifts, corporate partnerships, annual giving, private grants, special events and volunteer engagement. He will also lead efforts to strengthen development systems to support LifeMoves’ continued trajectory and long-term sustainability.

“Philanthropy is central to LifeMoves’ ability to respond at scale, and every gift is a vote of confidence in our capacity to deliver measurable outcomes,” said LifeMoves Board of Directors Chair Melissa Selcher. “Welcoming Fred, a seasoned, high-impact professional with an impressive track record of driving growth, strengthens our leadership bench and positions the organization to deepen donor relationships, build on our momentum and sustain regional impact.”

Smith brings more than 20 years of experience as a senior development leader and trusted philanthropic advisor. He most recently served as Principal of Divitiae Advisors, Inc., a nonprofit consulting and philanthropy advising firm. Since spring of 2025, Smith has served as LifeMoves’ Interim Chief Philanthropy Officer, working closely with the Board of Directors and Development team while advancing operational and fundraising goals.

“The work to end homelessness is complex and demands leaders who can unite diverse voices around a shared purpose,” said LifeMoves CEO Aubrey Merriman. “This moment calls for disciplined growth and strong philanthropic stewardship, and Fred Smith brings the experience, integrity and vision needed to mobilize partners, increase investment and bolster the programs that move people out of homelessness and toward long-term stability. We are proud to have him advancing these efforts on behalf of the people and communities we serve.”

Previously, Smith held senior advancement leadership roles at several of the nation’s leading universities, including Northwestern University, Stanford University and Santa Clara University. Across these institutions, he managed teams and fundraising initiatives in large-scale campaign environments exceeding half a billion dollars.

Smith’s relationship with LifeMoves dates back to the organization’s earlier chapter, through a professional connection with Dan Coonan, former co-chair of the InnVision Shelter Network Board of Directors whose organization later merged to create LifeMoves.

“I am inspired to work alongside donors, staff, volunteers and community members who believe we can solve homelessness here in Silicon Valley,” Smith said.  “I am humbled to join the LifeMoves staff in support of this amazing and worthwhile mission. While serving in an interim capacity, I developed a deep respect for the board, leadership, and staff. I look forward to working with them further to open new communities, build upon our services and connect with past, current, and future donors.”

As Chief Philanthropy Officer, Smith will focus on broadening and deepening philanthropic partnerships within the Bay Area and beyond, aligning fundraising strategy with LifeMoves’ expanding reach and impact.