As an attorney, Daniel Varner decided five years into his practice that incarcerating young people wasn't an effective way to better society. As a CEO, Mr. Varner has for seven years directed athletic and academic activities he co-founded to develop kids' character. And he made the right move. Think Detroit Police Athletic League, merged from two youth recreation providers, now serves nearly 13,000 children annually through programming that has attracted widespread attention. The organization was named Best-Managed non profit by Crain's Detroit Business in 2004 and hosted a 2005 visit from First Lady Laura Bush, who highlighted its positive impact on disadvantaged youth. Instrumental in numerous other Detroit projects, Varner holds a Social Entrepreneurship Award from the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research. Dan Gould call him, "A tireless worker and advocate for youth development and education. Dan has influenced thousands of Detroit youth. Under his leadership, TDPAL is considered one of the most effective youth development programs in the country. He is an exceptional leader with uncannny vision and compassion.