Charles P. Smith has created a life focused on service to others, first in the military, then as a financial advisor and branch manager and most recently as an advocate and bone marrow donor. And it’s not by accident. He thrives on making a difference in the lives of others, and is intentional about striving to achieve that. It’s what drives him to be his best every day, for his clients and his community.

After a 10-year career with the U.S. Marines, Smith entered the financial industry in 2003 where for nearly 20 years since he has built a reputation as an experienced, dynamic and empathetic leader with an unflagging commitment to doing the right thing for his advisors and clients.

Smith is a servant leader and passionate veteran’s advocate, participating in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative and as a board member of the mission-based Semper Fi Society of St. Louis. He recently had the honor of becoming a TED Talk speaker on the topic of veteran suicide. He felt compelled to raise awareness of this serious and important issue following the death by suicide of his own executive officer in May 2019. In honor of his mother, who died of cancer in 1999, Charles participated as a registered bone marrow donor with the C.W. Bill Young Department of Defense Salute to Life program. He has been called to donate four times to date, and was twice matched as a donor.

Born in New York City, Smith has lived all over the country, thanks to his military career. He moved to St. Louis in 2003 to put down roots, and has now lived here longer than anywhere else. He’s the proud dad of three teenagers who enjoys spending time with his family, cycling, running and being outdoors. Accomplished in the kitchen, at the grill and with the smoker, Smith is known for cooking up impressive barbeques and seafood boils for family and friends. Often too tired to eat his own meals, he says he cooks because bringing people together with food and making them happy gives him great personal satisfaction and joy.

Military, Activists, Suicide Prevention, Health, Mental Health, Finance, Financial Advisor, TED, Economy, Workshop, Veteran Affairs, Veteran