After 32 years of leadership at Youth Home, CEO David J. Napier is retiring.

During his tenure as CEO of Youth Home, David instilled trust in his team above all else, and demonstrated often the value of working well together to fulfill Youth Home’s mission. Believing that all Youth Home employees are equal and vital to our success, David led by example. He never thought himself above the work of another. His trademark humility was undeniable.

When asked why he chose to join Youth Home’s team, he heartily answers, “ I’ve always had a heart for others. I was in ministry before coming here, and honestly, this felt more like ministry because we help people everyday who have life issues to deal with. It’s just who I am.”

David never looked back after deciding to serve Youth Home and its mission, remarking that he’s made great friends in his time there that he will remember as long as he’s on the planet.

As a leader, he was remarkable.  Rather than trying to prepare for every possibility, David saw the need to strengthen the trust and connections of Youth Home’s Executive Team. He truly believed and said often that “we may not know what’s coming, but we’ll be ready for it when it arrives.” This mentality proved to be invaluable as the agency went through some of the most challenging years of its existence. David himself remarked that building trust and collaborative teamwork among his Executive Team is one of his greatest accomplishments with Youth Home.

His leadership was never more on display than during the challenges. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, for example, when the world was struggling to adjust, he continually demonstrated his ability to bring the team together, strategize quickly, prioritize safety, and exude calm, compassion, and empathy.

David’s contributions to the welfare of Youth Home and the countless lives touched by our mission is immeasurable. For a final remark on his time here, he shared, “It fills my heart with so much joy to think that I’ve been part of a team that has helped hundreds and hundreds of youth and their family members. To everyone who has helped make that happen, please know that in only the most appropriate way, I love you all”

David J Napier Dates:

• 1992 - David first joined the board
• 1995 and 1996 - Named back-to-back Board Member of the Year
• 1997 - Served as Board President
• 2003 - Rolled off the Board
• 2006 - Joined as Chief Operations Officer
• 2008 - Began attending National Association of Child Behavioral Health (NACBH)
• 2009 - Officially became CEO of Youth Home
• 2011 - Joined the Board of NACBH
• 2014 - Severed as an Officer of the NACBH Board
• 2016 - Served as President of NACBH Board