CEO | Founder
Message from the CEO | Founder
“A simple RANDOM ACT of KINDNESS can change the life of someone”.
Artavius Darby was born and raised in the inner city of West Perrine in the southern part of Miami-Dade county. He is the youngest of four siblings and was raised by a single mother: Lynn Darby. At a young age Artavius possessed a passion for helping others while employed at Perrine Optimist Club, assisting elementary students in mentorship, school work, and arts and crafts. While attending high school Artavius was a great student athlete, balancing his studies while being a triple threat in track and field, basketball, and football. Throughout his sports career he received many acknowledgements and awards. However, one stood out to him the most and that was the Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes athletes who made big plays behind the scenes.
In 2009, Artavius became employed with The Department of Juvenile Justice, taking interest in assisting incarcerated youth build character, complete their education, and change their mindset and behavior from negative to positive – giving them a better chance in life to succeed. The most memorable and loveable position Artavius has held was at the Youth Men’s Christian Academy (YMCA of South Florida), where he assisted autistic youth in aftercare programs and summer camps. While employed as a Campus Monitor at Renaissance Charter School at University, Artavius established a mentoring program that helped students build character, confidence, and self-esteem. Also, he was successful with not only teaching 16 students the art of chess, but created a tournament where all students received a certificate and medal for participation. Artavius’ passion for helping others continues as he currently works for Broward County Public Schools, making a difference in the life of everyone he encounters.
The establishment of People of Service Inc. was a vision from God, given to Artavius in 2013. He envisioned himself walking down a street encountering a man who looked homeless. He greeted the man saying, “Hello and have a blessed day.” The man replied, “Are you talking to me?” As Artavius responded with “Yes”, the man said, “For many years people have stepped over me and never spoke to me. I felt I wasn’t alive which was leading me to commit suicide, but since you have spoken to me I’m not going to do that because I now feel alive.” This vision changed Artavius’ perspective on life forever!
Artavius Darby
CEO/Founder
