Derek is the founder of Integrative Youth Development (IYD.) IYD teaches a measurable, meaningful, and memorable method to youth, family members, teachers, administrators, youth program professionals, faith leaders that essentially guarantees the health and well-being of all children and youth. Derek is a youth-serving professional who easily shifts from leading student retreats one day, to working alongside local, state, and national elected officials to shape and form policy the next. Derek's community engagement work in the Federal Government's No Child Left Behind Legislation has been highlighted by the Harvard Education Review. He has been recognized as the "Prevention Professional of the Year" and for his "Distinguished Service to Schools" in Alaska. He has delivered over 2000 presentations on youth development around the world. His work has engaged and supported individuals, families, schools, and communities for over 30 years. Today, Derek is an International Child/Youth Advocate who does IYD work for numerous communities and school districts throughout the USA and the world, including contractual work with the National School Board Association, the Education Commission of the States, Arizona School Board Association, the Yukon-Koyukuk School District, the International Institute for Children's' Rights and Development, the Canadian Ministry of Child and Family Development, Strategies (Calif), the Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault, to name a few. He guides efforts to merge young development research with the attitudes, cultures and values found within local communities.