What A Journey

Innovate

Motivate

Innovate

Motivate

Linda Smith

#Public Speaker

#Philanthropist

#Writer & Author

#Fundraiser

#Disability Advocate

#Wife & Mother

A woman in a vibrant blue top stands in front of a colorful abstract painting, smiling warmly. Her poised demeanor reflects her role as a motivational speaker and disability advocate, emphasizing her dedication to nonprofit leadership and advocacy.| Linda’s Life – Linda Smith

About Linda Smith

A life built on refusing to give up

As a young girl growing up in poverty and abuse, Linda Smith faced insurmountable challenges that would have left most people broken and defeated. During her troubled youth she was pressed to find her voice and become a self advocate, or lose her voice and become a victim. As a new mother the world told her yet again to give up, as her baby boy was born with Down syndrome. Since that time, Linda has made it her life mission to be a champion for all people with disabilities.

Leading Through Positive Influence

Let Linda inspire your next event

Keep Up With Linda

Latest from the Linda’s Life blog

News from Linda’s travels and her work, plus expert advice on advocacy, writing and fundraising.

  • A group of people gather outside a warehouse filled with mobility aids like scooters and walkers, engaging in nonprofit fundraising activities, reflecting Linda Smith's advocacy and philanthropy work.| Linda’s Life – Linda Smith

    A Demographic Missed

    February 9, 2026

    A Demographic Missed For most of my life, I knew

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    Raising half a billion dollars, not once but twice- while living on my own terms

    July 25, 2025

    For over 40 years, inspired by my son Christopher, born

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    A Tribute to Christopher: A Life of Purpose and Inspiration

    May 15, 2025

    A Tribute to Christopher: A Life of Purpose and Inspiration

Fundraising

Need help fundraising? Ask Linda Smith.

Linda has raised over $500 million. Let her fundraise for you.

The Concert of Love

The Meatball Festival

The Turkey Trot

Celebrity Wives Fashion Show

Testimonials

What people say about Linda

“Linda is to Las Vegas as Dorothy is to the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion.”

Wayne Newton, Las Vegas Legend

“What Linda has done for our community, and on a larger scale, the community of those living with intellectual disabilities, is just astonishing. I am not a religious man, but this woman should be sainted.”

Penn Jillette of Penn & Teller

“Linda is one of the most extraordinary development leaders in the US. Her stories about how non profits and their boards can connect with funders, all while making the process enjoyable, are unlike any you’ll hear.”

Julie Murray, CEO, Moonridge Group Philanthropy Partners

See some of Linda Smith’s clients

Cleveland Clinic
Henry’s Place
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Mychal’s Learning Place
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The Collaboration Center
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PFF

Let’s talk about your next event

Speaking, fundraising or advocacy. Linda would love to hear from you.