Embattled nonprofit CEO resigns
December 10, 2022 - Kirk Ray Smith, former president and CEO of Clearwater-based Hope Villages of America (HVA), resigned earlier this week. His departure follows an emergency board meeting to discuss allegations that he “ranted” at a volunteer committee after they raised $70,000 for an HVA women’s shelter. Melinda Perry, the nonprofit’s chief operating officer, will serve as interim president. The Juvenile Welfare Board stopped funding an HVA family homeless shelter in December 2020 due to management and financial concerns.