Community Voices: Trent Smith, Franklinton Board of Trade Executive Director
- We Amplify Voices
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
When a neighborhood is cared for, you can feel it in the clean sidewalks, the community murals, and the way people feel connected. That kind of care doesn’t just happen, but is built by the people who consistently show up. In Franklinton, one of those people is Trent Smith.
You may know Trent as the Executive Director of the Franklinton Board of Trade, where he also manages the Franklinton Special Improvement District. Trent not only works in Franklinton, but calls it home, and he shows up every day to help the community thrive. We are honored to feature him in this month’s Community Voices series.
Working Together for a Stronger Franklinton
The Franklinton Board of Trade (FBOT) is a network of local businesses, nonprofits, property owners, and residents encouraging each other to "be part of the change." Their mission is grounded in three guiding principles:
We Advocate – so that our neighbors can speak with empowered voices.
We Beautify – so that everyone can take pride in their surroundings.
We Connect – so that all can know and respect the valuable resources we bring to each other.
In partnership with local stakeholders, the Franklinton Special Improvement District (FSID) focuses on distributing funds to improve the cleanliness and safety of the area as it continues to grow and evolve.
Trent supports this work through his leadership with both organizations, helping to build bridges between local businesses, residents, and nonprofits. As one individual, his efforts often create ripple effects, connecting partners like WAV and other community initiatives in ways that strengthen the fabric of Franklinton as a whole.
Beyond his leadership roles, Trent is a go-to source for Franklinton history, often sharing stories and local knowledge. Learn more about Franklinton's story with Trent on NBC-4: The Rise of Franklinton and the Columbus Chronicle Podcast.
Connecting through History, Creativity and Care
Trent and WAV share a common goal: building a more connected Franklinton where every voice is heard and valued. Our headquarters on Sullivant Avenue places us right in the heart of the neighborhood, and Trent has helped us deepen our roots here.
He’s introduced us to new partners like COSI, opened the door to summer camp field trips at the Franklinton Firehouse, and always makes time to share advice or offer support when we need it most.
Trent has also played a meaningful role in our Intergenerational Project, teaching third-grade students at Avondale Elementary about the history of Franklinton and the story of the Franklinton flag. Through these moments, young people learn that they’re part of something large, a neighborhood with deep roots and a future they can help shape.
A Sense of Ownership
"What keeps me going is just the idea that if I stop doing what I do, although I know that eventually someone would fill that void, I don't know who would do it right away."- Trent Smith
For Trent, he stays grounded in the work he does, feeling a sense of ownership in being the one who can be counted on when it matters. And his personal commitment to advocate, beautify, and connect is a reflection of the kind of neighborhood we’re all working toward.
At WAV, we often say that healing starts with connection, and we believe creative expression is one of the most powerful tools for that. Whether it's a mural that reflects a neighborhood’s story, a song that says “you’re not alone,” or a classroom where kids learn from older generations, we stay grounded when we create together.
Trent’s presence in Franklinton is a reminder that real change doesn’t always come in big moments. Sometimes it’s the consistent effort to show up for your neighbors, friends, and loved ones- again and again.
How Will You Show Up?
You don’t have to run an organization to make an impact, and we hope you are inspired by Trent to start where you are: in your neighborhood, at your dinner table, and with your voice. All it takes is genuine caring and the willingness to show up.
Volunteer your time. Share your skills. Support local leaders. Listen to your neighbors. Attend community events. Create art. Tell stories. Make space for others. Stay grounded.
If Trent’s story moves you, let it move you into action.
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Watch the full video of "Community Voices: Trent Smith, Franklinton Board of Trade Executive Director" above.
Thank you, Trent Smith, for showing us what it means to lead with heart and to stay grounded in the work that matters.
