David Cohen is a seasoned nonprofit leader with 27 years of cross‑sector experience and 15 years as CEO of Doc Wayne Youth Services, where he guided the organization through a period of significant growth, operational strengthening, and mission expansion. His career reflects a deep commitment to improving systems, supporting teams, and advancing high‑quality, mission‑driven programs that serve vulnerable communities.
At Doc Wayne, David oversaw all aspects of organizational leadership, including strategy, operations, financial management, government contracting, compliance, and cross‑functional execution. He led a smaller but highly complex human‑services organization with multiple program areas, diverse funding streams, and rigorous regulatory requirements. Under his leadership, Doc Wayne modernized its infrastructure, strengthened its senior team, improved operational workflows, and enhanced data‑driven decision‑making. David also cultivated multi‑year philanthropic partnerships, stewarded government grants, and represented the organization with funders, partners, and community stakeholders.
David is widely recognized as a relationship‑builder who earns trust through clarity, consistency, and genuine partnership. Across his career, he has secured sustained investment from funders, boards, and community partners by listening deeply, communicating transparently, and aligning organizational priorities with stakeholder needs. His ability to build trust quickly and maintain it over time has been central to his success guiding organizations through transition, strengthening cross‑functional collaboration, and removing barriers to execution.
In addition to his executive leadership roles, David has been deeply involved with Epic Experience, a Colorado‑based nonprofit supporting adult cancer survivors. His connection began as a participant, and over time he served as a volunteer, board member, and ultimately Board Chair. This progression reflects his personal commitment to resilience, healing, and community and gives him a unique perspective on nonprofit leadership from every angle: program participant, frontline volunteer, and governance leader.
David founded and led Playing It Forward, a philanthropic initiative supporting youth‑development organizations globally, and previously held roles in major gifts, business development, operations management, and marketing. This breadth of experience gives him a holistic understanding of organizational dynamics across sectors and funding environments.
He holds an MBA from Bentley University and a BS in International Business from Babson College, where he was also a college soccer player, shaping his approach to leadership through teamwork, resilience, and disciplined execution. A lifelong New Englander, David and his wife have raised two adult daughters and share their home with two Doodles. He is an avid pickleball player and enjoys traveling the world, experiences that deepen his appreciation for culture, connection, and community.
As an interim Executive Director, David brings a steady, grounded presence and a proven ability to support boards, staff, and stakeholders during periods of transition. He is adept at quickly assessing organizational needs, strengthening infrastructure, improving communication, and ensuring continuity of operations. His approach centers on partnership, transparency, and practical execution, helping organizations navigate change while laying the foundation for long‑term stability and success.
LinkedIn: David Cohen