David Cohen is the Chief Executive Officer of Doc Wayne Youth Services, a nonprofit organization that leads the field in sport-based therapy and mental health services for youth. He has served in this role since August 2011, bringing more than 30 years of experience in both the nonprofit and business sectors.
Under David’s leadership, Doc Wayne has earned national and international recognition for its innovative approach to mental health care, including awards from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Morgan Stanley’s Children’s Mental Health Innovation Award, and Beyond Sport’s Global Sports for Health Award. He was named an MLS W.O.R.K.S. New England Community MVP and a Social Innovator by the Social Innovation Forum.
A lifelong athlete and former college soccer player, David has worked in sport-based youth development since 2008. He is passionate about using the transformative power of sports to support and empower young people—particularly those facing mental health challenges or trauma.
David holds a Bachelor of Science from Babson College and an MBA from Bentley University. His unique combination of business acumen, lived experience, and deep compassion has helped Doc Wayne grow its global reach and become a thought leader in the integration of sports and therapy.
He has been featured in media outlets including WCVB’s Chronicle, WCVB News Boston, Power of Sports, and podcasts such as One Big Boat and From Problems to Possibilities: Entrepreneurial Leadership in Action. David is a frequent speaker and panelist on topics such as youth mental health, social innovation, sports for development, and nonprofit leadership.
David is also a cancer survivor, and an advocate for adult cancer thrivers. He is an active supporter of Epic Experience, a Colorado-based nonprofit that helps adult cancer survivors live beyond cancer through outdoor adventure, peer connections, and education.
David and his wife, Lauren, are proud parents of two children and two doodles. They enjoy spending time together as a family and love to travel and explore new places. David lives by a personal credo that guides his leadership and life:
“Life is short, so make sure you squeeze every ounce out of every day.”
He also draws inspiration from a close friend’s reminder:
“Look up—you may miss something.”