Darell Hammond -
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder

Darell grew up with seven brothers and sisters at Mooseheart, a group home outside of Chicago.  The Mooseheart community instilled in Darell the power of volunteerism and helping those less fortunate.

His journey would eventually lead him to co-found KaBOOM! in 1995 and begin his lifelong commitment to give all children the opportunity to play. Under Darell’s leadership as Chief Executive Officer, KaBOOM! has raised over 100 million dollars to build over 1,300 playgrounds, skateparks, sports fields and ice rinks and improved thousands of others across America in just 12 years.

Darell has won numerous national service and leadership awards and has been profiled in People, Washingtonian, Fortune, Fast Company and Worth magazines, the Non-Profit Times, the Chronicle on Philanthropy and Crain’s Chicago Business.  He has also received the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

In addition to his work with KaBOOM!, in 2003 Darell was elected as an Ashoka Fellow for being a leader in social entrepreneurship.  

Awards and Recognitions

• National Jefferson Award, 2008
• Honorary Degree, Ripon College, 2008
• Children's Mental Health Award, NARSAD, 2007
• President's Volunteer Service Award, 2004
• Power and Influence Top 50, non-profit Times, 2004
• Washingtonian of the Year, Washingtonian magazine, 2003
• Fellow, Ashoka: Innovators for the Public, 2003
• 40 under 40, Crain's Chicago Business, 2000
• Making a Difference Award, Diet Coke, 1999