Meet 2026 Partner in Philanthropy Award Recipient Winfield Smathers IV

Winfield Smathers IV is the 2026 recipient of the Partner in Philanthropy Award. The award recognizes a financial advisor who has shown an outstanding commitment to The Pittsburgh Foundation, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, and the community. 

Smathers helps clients across the greater Pittsburgh area plan for their financial futures while connecting them to the causes that matter most to them. He also holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary designation, which equips him to serve nonprofit and for-profit organizations as they manage and govern endowment and qualified plan assets.  

"Most of my clients have two motivations: they want to take care of their families and they want to take care of the causes that matter to them," said Smathers.

Before founding Shorebridge, he spent 20 years at Hunter Associates, serving as a financial advisor, shareholder and managing director responsible for day-to-day management and strategic planning. That experience shaped the comprehensive approach he brings to clients today, guiding them through charitable giving, investment portfolio management, wealth preservation and retirement planning.  

“Win has made philanthropy a priority in his conversations with clients, recognizing that charitable giving is an important part of their overall financial planning. That takes time, care and a genuine commitment to understanding what matters most to each client,” Kate McKenzie, vice president of development and donor services said. “It’s that thoughtful approach that has earned him the trust of his clients and built such a strong reputation in our community.” 

Smathers lives in Gibsonia with his wife, Karen, and their four children, where he remains active in the non-profit community. He currently serves as a board officer for St. Barnabas Communities and is an avid golfer in his leisure time.