About Darick

Darick J Simpson has often said that, “Executive Director of a multimillion dollar nonprofit agency or President of a Foundation is what I do. However, a creative writer, speaker, mentor, innovative leader, Grandfather is who I am!" He started writing poetry as a collegiate athlete and realized over the years that he was blessed with a talent to express the feelings of others and his own very eloquently in poetry and lyrics. To date Darick has three published books and one CD with spoken word and smooth jazz that can be found on iTunes. His diverse experiences include the creation of PADNET.tv in Long Beach, successful Teen Programs and becoming  a voting member of the Recording Academy (Grammy Awards) from 2008 - 2014. Throughout his career Darick has established an excellent reputation as an innovative Business Executive, Community Leader, Mentor, Diplomat and Creative Writer. The Long Beach Post named him one of the Ten Most Powerful People in Long Beach in 2012. Due to his outstanding community leadership he was recognized as one of PBS SoCal first American Graduate Champions in 2015. In 2016 Darick was honored with The California Conference for Equality and Justice Humanitarian award. Through his leadership and core values Darick J. Simpson continues to inspire others and change lives with his efforts. He says that “being his BEST ME while helping others realize the same is the greatest of blessings he could hope for."