Charlene Smith is a strategic, community-focused leader with over a decade of experience advancing philanthropy, social impact, and organizational growth across Vancouver Island and beyond. As the Foundation’s inaugural Executive Director, Charlene brings a deep love of place and a forward-looking vision to cultivate a stronger, more connected, and resilient community through local giving. She is recognized for translating complexity into action and turning shared values into meaningful impact to help organizations grow in ways that are both purpose-driven and community-centered.
A Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), Charlene has secured over $25 million in philanthropic and partnership funding to advance community well-being and strengthen nonprofit capacity across the Island. Her career spans leadership roles with organizations such as 4VI Group, where she directed social impact and community investment strategy; First West Credit Union, where she managed a $1M+ community investment portfolio; Take a Hike Foundation, where she designed a new fund development program to launch multiple youth mental health programs across the Island. Earlier in her career, Charlene spearheaded record-breaking campaigns and joined the first leadership giving team at the University of Victoria. She also strengthened major gift and stewardship systems at the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, supporting the launch of Foundry Victoria.Through her consulting practice, Triple Peak Consulting, she has advised dozens of nonprofits and businesses on philanthropy, impact measurement, and systems design to help mission-driven organizations grow with purpose and integrity.
Born and raised on the West Coast, Charlene has called Qualicum Beach home for the past three years and is proud to have planted roots here with her partner and their dog. Outside of work, she can be found exploring the outdoors — hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, running, or biking her way across Vancouver Island’s trails, lakes, and mountains.
Charlene is deeply passionate about trust-based philanthropy, inclusive community development, and fostering partnerships that help local organizations thrive. She is inspired by PQCF’s mission to ensure that generosity remains a driving force in our region’s future — and is committed to shaping the Foundation’s next chapter of sustainable growth and community impact. She believes that our trails — in work and in life — are better travelled together.