Name: Kim Smith Oldham
Company or Organization: Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA)
What is your job or role there? Executive Director
Where do you live? Hartford Township
How do you think that Bold Women of Business demonstrate being bold?
Bold Women of Business demonstrate boldness by leading with passion and determination, even during challenging and uncertain times. They stay true to their values and beliefs, making courageous decisions that reflect integrity and purpose. These women lead by example, inspiring others to be confident, resilient, and authentic in their own paths.
Bold women are often defined by a number of descriptors. What top three would say most exemplify your personality?
Courageous
Valiant
Strong
Please provide an example of when you feel you were at your very best in taking action on the job or in your role.
Working for the agency has provided me with many opportunities to grow and learn. However, one moment that truly stands out was when I first stepped into the role of Executive Director—right as the world was entering the COVID-19 pandemic. It was an incredibly challenging time that required swift, decisive action. My immediate priority was to find a balance between continuing to serve our community and ensuring the safety of my staff. As essential workers, remote work was not an option. We had to be on the frontlines. We quickly mobilized to distribute food, masks, and other critical supplies. Many households were suddenly out of work and in need of assistance with rent and utilities. It was a time of great uncertainty, but through collaboration with numerous organizations, we were able to meet the needs of our community. These partnerships not only helped us get through the crisis but also forged strong relationships that continue to benefit the agency today. I’m proud of how we navigated that period—it was a true test of leadership, and I believe it brought out the very best in me and our team.
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened on your road to success?
I’m not sure if everyone would call this funny, but it certainly makes me laugh looking back! Nearly 30 years ago, before I joined the agency, I was working for a doctor but looking to make a change. I started working with a woman from MiWorks! who had me sending out resumes every week—but with no luck. One day, I saw an ad for a receptionist position at the agency and thought, “Why not try again?” I got a call for an interview, and they asked me to come in the following Wednesday. I told them I had Thursday off and asked if we could do it then instead. The person on the phone said, “No—grow a backbone and ask for Wednesday off!” I thought, “Well, okay then!” I really wanted the job, so I did it—I asked for the time off and went to the interview. When I arrived, I was led into a room, and no one was there. I turned around—and suddenly, a woman jumped out from behind the door! It turned out to be the Director of the agency at the time. She had recognized my name from my resume because—believe it or not—she was a patient at the doctor’s office where I worked. She said, “I knew it was you!” At that moment, I had a strong feeling I got the job. But here’s the best part: on my first day at the agency, I was introduced to my new supervisor—and it was the same woman from MiWorks! who had helped me with my job search in the first place. Talk about coming full circle! Those two women saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself—and thanks to a surprise jump-scare and a little tough love over the phone, my road to success officially began.
Who most inspires your personal drive for success every day?
I would have to say my parents. They instilled in all of their children the importance of hard work and always doing your best. I was fortunate to grow up with two wonderful parents who led by example. They taught us to lend a hand whenever we could, to help others without expecting anything in return, and to always give people a second chance. Their values continue to inspire me every day and drive me to succeed—not just for myself, but so I can give back in the same generous spirit they always showed.
What is your best advice to women in Southwest Michigan looking to succeed, as you have, in business?
Don’t be afraid to show up as your best self. Lead by example, stay curious, and commit to learning every day. Surround yourself with strong, bold women who inspire you, and focus on building meaningful connections through collaboration.
What does your selection to the ranks of the Bold Women of Business from Moody on the Market mean to you?
Being selected as one of the Bold Women of Business is a true honor and a moment of great pride for me. It means a great deal to be recognized alongside such an inspiring group of trailblazing women who are making a meaningful impact in their fields. This recognition affirms the hard work, resilience, and bold decisions that have shaped my journey, and it motivates me to continue pushing boundaries—not just for myself, but for others who are coming up behind me. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this powerful community. This is a true honor to receive this award and be counted along with a great list of other Bold Women of Business.
