Q&A with Larry Smith

Meet Larry Smith.

Larry serves as the Director of Development for the Hamilton County Community Foundation.

What excites you about your new role?

I am excited about the opportunity to serve the people of Hamilton County, which has been my home for about five years. (I was born and reared in Indy.) Hamilton County is growing, both in terms of its overall population and in terms of its diversity. Many people—even many people who live here—don’t realize that we have many different types of challenges that are related to poverty. That makes our fund development task a little more daunting, but we’re up to it.

In this past year, what book, movie or album resonated with you in the strongest way and why?

“Judas and the Black Messiah.” It had great writing, directing and a superlative performance by Daniel Kaluuya (and very good ones by most of the cast). As an undergraduate, I majored in history with a concentration in African-American Studies. Fred Hampton was, and remains, one of my heroes.

What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important?

I’m learning a lot about donor-advised funds, thanks to Sarah Weaver. I knew a little bit about them before joining, but Sarah is a fountain of knowledge.

What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?

My favorite way to unwind is by watching movies. I have an “unlimited pass” from Regal Theaters.

What’s your most recent act of equity?

My most recent act of equity is confronting someone who made a derogatory comment about a trans person.