Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Darnell Stokes.
Hi Dr. Darnell, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Dr. Darnell Stokes is a distinguished and compassionate leader in social services and finance whose work has made a lasting impact on youth and communities. With more than 10 years of experience as a youth mentor and foster parent in the state of Texas, he brings deep personal insight and commitment to his role as Chief Executive Officer of Valuing Other Lives Inc., a position he has held since 2020. His leadership style is hands-on and relational, emphasizing a family-like environment where young people feel supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Under Dr. Stokes’s guidance, Valuing Other Lives Inc. has strengthened its programs by ensuring youth have access to essential resources, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth and achievement. He is directly involved in engaging with youth, building strategic partnerships with other nonprofit organizations, and leading initiatives that expand services and contractual opportunities. His active schedule reflects a forward-thinking approach focused on sustainability, collaboration, and innovation.
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Stokes is deeply committed to community service through his church and civic involvement. His dedication has been recognized through several honors, including the Ministerial Excellence Award from Daughters of Destiny in 2024. In his personal life, he enjoys cooking, traveling, and volunteering, which further reflect his service-oriented values. Dr. Stokes is driven by a vision to transform the foster care system and create meaningful opportunities for veterans, youth in foster care, at-risk youth, and the elderly by developing impactful resource and training programs that help individuals overcome challenges and succeed.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the major struggles has been navigating the complexities of the foster care system, including regulatory requirements, limited funding, and gaps in available resources for youth.
Another one is working closely with youth who have experienced trauma brings emotional and operational challenges. Balancing the immediate needs of young people with long-term organizational growth has required resilience, adaptability, and strong faith.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Valuing Other Lives Inc?
What distinguishes our organization is our faith-based foundation combined with a commitment to empowering individuals and supporting them in overcoming generational trauma and adversity. We believe that genuine success is achieved through healing, personal growth, and addressing past wounds.
From a branding perspective, I am particularly proud of the trust and credibility Valuing Other Lives Inc. has earned within the community. Our brand exemplifies consistency, compassion, and accountability. Families, partners, and youth recognize that engagement with our organization means entering a safe, supportive, and family-oriented environment characterized by genuine care and reliable follow-through.
Additionally, our reputation for hands-on leadership and tangible impact sets us apart. We strive to go beyond service provision by cultivating meaningful relationships, advocating for positive change, and offering guidance throughout each individual’s journey. Above all, our brand is committed to valuing every person beyond their circumstances; witnessing transformed lives is our greatest achievement.
We are actively seeking partnerships, collaborations, and donors to help ensure that youth and families can thrive, prevent poverty, and contribute to the creation of many success stories.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I like best about our city, is that is has several opportunities and benefits resources for all individuals.
They one thing I dislike about our city is that it is hard to access those resources and their not available to everyone. It contradicts my previous statement because it should be for everyone, but their not.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://valuingotherlives.org
- Facebook: Valuing Other Lives Inc
