William A. Smith, Managing Director

Bill is a co-founder of the World Ability Federation.

He brings to the organization years of business management skills including his specialized expertise in business practices for not-for-profit 501(C)(3) organizations.

Past projects included leading the technology department for the Chicago Public Schools where he conceived of and implemented a web-enabled application to greatly improve the delivery of special education services to Chicago Public School children with special needs.

As an advocate for the role of using technology to empower people with special needs, Bill accepted the operational leadership role for a national 501(c)(3) charitable foundation that was dedicated to helping people with disabilities.  In his role as Chief Operations Officer, Bill successfully reengineered the organization to create its first-ever self sustaining revenue model ensuring the organization’s ability to continue providing technology to thousands of people with disabilities.

Since 2002, as the co-founder of the World Ability Federation, NFP, Bill became the organization’s Managing Director and has continued his dedication to redefine the traditional methods by which individuals and organizations assist people with disabilities.  He served as the Master of Ceremonies for the Ability Awards Galas, co-produced and hosted the Chicago television show, “Empowering People with Disabilities”, and has addressed national forums pertaining to issues surrounding disabilities.  Bill has also been interviewed on national radio and web broadcast programs to bring the empowering message of the importance of focusing on a person’s ability rather than their disability.  As an author, Bill has published a book and has co-written regular articles in ABILITY Magazine.

Bill currently lives with his wife and son in the Wrigleyville neighborhood on Chicago’s north side.