Inspired by President Obama’s Fatherhood & Mentoring Initiative, seven-time NBA All-Star Dwyane Wade hosted a Responsible Fatherhood Roundtable discussion and recognition ceremony with a group of individuals who exemplify the goals of the President’s initiative. While I was encouraged by Dwayne’s remarks, I was also impacted by the local individuals who joined us at this meeting that exemplify and promote responsible fatherhood.
Photo, Front Row from Left to Right: Sean Forehand (Manager, Orange County LINOS Program), Eugene Schneeberg (Director, DOJ Center for Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships), Dwyane Wade, and Joshua DuBois (Special Advisor to the President and Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships)
- Bryan Nelson, coordinator of the Boot Camp for New Dads program in Orlando, uses his passion everyday to teach new dads the importance of their participation and leadership.
- Anthony “Tony” Washington is a retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer, a dad, grandfather and a mentor.
- Anselmo Nieves, a compassionate dad dedicated to balancing work and spending time with all three of his sons including his youngest, who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy as an infant.
- Larry Darnell Robinson, a dad who was raised in foster care and group homes himself, is now the proud father of a beautiful four year-old daughter whose story demonstrates how people can overcome tremendous obstacles and still be a great fathers.
- Dexter Nelson, a hands-on single father of three children, serves as the Fatherhood Ambassador for the Pine Hills Head Start program.
- Jim Werner, founder of Circle Christian School, has a passion for families and challenges parents and students to understand that education must go beyond academic accomplishment, encouraging his students to develop skills that focus on relationships, character, and full engagement with life.
- Karen Wint, who has been a foster parent to roughly 40 children, works with her local Boy Scouts pack to engage more fathers in activities because she recognizes the value of positive male role models.
- Raheem Sharpe, a hard working teen father to his son, benefits from having a mentor who can help him navigate the challenges of being a young father.
- Sean Forehand, Sr., manages the Low Income Non-custodial parent Outreach Service (LINOS) for the Dept. of Child Support Enforcement, where he focuses on outreach and education assisting soon-to-be and recently released fathers to get the tools they need to successfully support their families financially and emotionally.
- Rev. Jose Elias Gonzalez & his wife Jackie have been specializing in Family and Youth Ministry for over 20 years. Pastor Gonzalez emphasizes the important role that men and fathers play in their communities. He is the founder of PROTÉGÉ INC. a non-profit organization focused on mentoring and equipping the next generation with life skills.
Through each of their stories, it was amazing to highlight positive examples of the impact being made to turn the tide on father absence in our local communities.
Eugene Schneeberg is the Director of the Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the Department of Justice.
Recently, I had a chance to sit down with seven time NBA All-Star Dwyane Wade, to talk about how he is, in his own words, a “father First.” Through the event, Dwyane had an opportunity to share why fatherhood is so important to him. His remarks were made to a room of individuals in Orlando who exemplify the principles outlined by President Obama in his Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative and highlighted in this event by Dwyane Wade: that fatherhood is and has to be a priority for everyone in our communities. From Bryan Nelson with the Boot Camp for New Dads program to Sean Forehand, Sr. from the local Child Support Office who has given over 400 in-person presentations to fathers throughout the Central Florida area, everyone who gathered were all stars for the work they are doing to strengthen fatherhood in Orlando. See more of these All Stars in the video below and hear directly from Dwyane how he makes fatherhood a priority.
Watch Dwyane Wade speak about being a “Father First.”
Joshua DuBois is Special Assistant to President Obama and Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships
Along with over 500 fathers and children, my children and I recently had the privilege of attending the All Pro Dad’s Baltimore All Pro Dad Father and Kids Experience at M&T Bank Stadium. At the event, Super Bowl Champion Matt Stover spoke very personally about the importance of being a father. My kids enjoyed plenty of fun games and getting their faces painted by clowns who made them balloon animals. I was profoundly touched by the activities centered on practical fatherhood tips and techniques. Through a variety of different football drills, games, and “fatherhood stations,” I was excited to be able to connect with my children in a new way.
Matt Stover, former Baltimore Raven Placekicker along with Eugene Schneeberg, Director of the Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the Department of Justice with his daughter Genesis and son Eugene .
One of the “fatherhood stations” focused on the importance of Dad’s telling their children that they love them and that they are proud of them. At another station we practiced handing the ball off to each other and scoring a touchdown. After the touchdown, we celebrated by doing a silly dance and giving each other big hugs like NFL players do when they score a touchdown. The facilitator at that station stressed the importance of having fun, being affectionate and hugging your children.
My favorite station was when we were asked to come up with a secret hand sign like those between a quarterback and coach that only my children and I would know. Then, we used that signal to tell each other “I love you.” My six year old son jumped right to it and came up with a great sign. My family and I continue to do our special secret hand signal to this day.
My fathering skills went to another level that day! All Pro Dad is one of many great Fatherhood organizations whose work is right in line with the President’s Fatherhood & Mentoring Initiative.
For more information about All Pro Dad visit: www.AllProDad.com
Eugene Schneeberg is the Director of the Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the Department of Justice.
In response to the call by President Obama to strengthen fathers and families, the NFL Players Association shared the initiative with players, encouraging them to showcase the role of fathers and mentors in their communities.
Ran Carthon, a pro scout with the Atlanta Falcons, responded to the call with an innovative idea: The Fatherhood Ticket Program. Because Carthon wanted to highlight positive role models for change in his community, he put out a call for stories written by children of fathers who are mentors and leaders. From the submissions, a winner was selected to receive tickets, sideline passes and parking passes to six Atlanta Falcons games.
To hear the story of the winner and watch a recap of the winners’ visit to the game, check out the video below
Carthon’s efforts could not be contained within the stadium. He also reached out to the principal of his daughter’s school, Harmony Elementary School, to launch an All-Pro Dads program. The principal welcomed him into the school as a way to get more fathers engaged in school activities and programming. When Carthon hosted a breakfast with food from a local restaurant, 75 dads showed up to talk about being involved in their families and communities.
Carthon’s story is just one of many around the country responding to the call from President Obama to strengthen the role of fathers in their families and communities. Share your story with us at info@fatherhood.gov.
Last week, we launched the first in series of blog posts we are calling TableTalk. TableTalk posts include topics that fathers, caretakers and mentors can talk about with kids. Here are some tips for good communication:
- Talk and then talk some more
- Listen
- Be Patient
- Offer choices
Read more about these and other tips and use the questions below to get everybody talking!TableTalk#2
- When you grow up, what do you want to be?
- Who is your best friend? What is special about them that makes them your best friend?
- What is your favorite letter or number? When did you decided it was your favorite and why?
Exciting news: today, we are launching the “TableTalk” blog series on the DadTalk blog! TableTalk are ideas of things that dads can talk about with their kids. TableTalk can happen at any time; it might be a conversation over a meal or while you are playing catch. The key is to get yourself and your child talking!
These questions don’t just have to be for dad. Kids, moms, grandparents and mentors can use these questions to get their conversations started!
TableTalk#1
- If you could be a superhero, what would be your super power?
- School starts soon. What are you most looking forward to? What are you scared about with going back to school?
- What is your favorite joke?
Let us know how the TableTalk goes!
What they’re saying about HUD’s Fathers Day 2011: Part 2
Recently, the DadTalk blog recognized how the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is celebrating fatherhood with their Fathers Day 2011 events held at local public housing authorities. Here are some thoughts, quotes and pictures from people who attended the events. See even more comments and thoughts from Part 1 of this post.
Dallas, TX
The kids had a great time as they enjoyed bounce houses, face painting, and a number of other activities. I also enjoyed the fact that Dallas Housing Authority brought in a picture booth for fathers and their children to take fun pictures together. Two former NFL players, Scott Turner (Washington Redskins) and Ryan Neufeld (Buffalo Bills) representing the NFL Players’ Association gave inspirational speeches that stressed the importance of the active involvement of fathers in the lives of their children.
- Regenia Hawkins, Fort Worth Public Housing Field Office Director
FWHA employee helps winner of the game select a prize
Washington, DC
We sent a message to fathers that DC Housing Authority is seriously committed to providing support, services and interventions that help them overcome obstacles and have an opportunity to establish or restore a relationship with his children. I was heartened to see that fathers participating in the event were serious and active participants throughout the day, and definitely shatters the stereotype. In fact, seminars lasted longer than scheduled because fathers asked so many questions and were very engaged.
-Adrianne Todman Executive Director District, Columbia Housing Authority
Atlanta, GA
Each child seemed to be beaming at the opportunity to proclaim his or hers as the best dad in the world. One young man left us all speechless. He just turned 6 years old and just finished kindergarten. He read from a full typed page about how great his father is and how they have special time together every day when his dad takes him to school. He was followed by a young middle school girl. But right in the middle of her remarks, the 6 year old previous speaker got up and ran to his father from behind the podium proclaiming, "My Daddy is the best Daddy, My Daddy is the best Daddy!" Both fathers were bursting with pride of course! Imagine that! Kids at a Public Housing Event, fighting over who has the best DAD!
- Ed Jennings, Jr. Atlanta Regional Administrator
I was blessed to have my son, Jered, attend the event and witness the variety of activities for children and fathers ranging from face painting, arts and crafts to basketball, kick ball, dancing and a live horseback riding demonstration by the Buffalo Soldiers Greater Atlanta Chapter. Additionally, a resource room with representatives from Gate City Nursery, Atlanta Public Schools, Atlanta Workforce Development Agency, Center for Working Families, Atlanta Community Food Bank, West End Medical Center, Habitat for Humanity, Atlanta Legal Aid, Fulton County DFACs, and the United Way was available to connect fathers to services and resources which eliminate barriers to upward mobility and family success. All fathers in attendance were deeply appreciative to be able to be in the company of and introduce their children to some of the prominent guest speakers. As I addressed the attendees, I felt a deep sense of pride in not only being a father but also being a part of HUD’s wonderful mission of creating strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality, affordable homes for all. Regardless of obstacles faced in the past, fathers and their children learned that patience and hope are the keys that will open the doors to the continued productive presence vital to their most important legacy – their children.
- Jerryl Bennett, Director Atlanta Regional Office
FWHA Youth in the audience are selected to spell out the word FATHER.
What they’re saying about HUD’s Fathers Day 2011: Part 1
Recently, the DadTalk blog recognized how the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is celebrating fatherhood with their Fathers Day 2011 events held at local public housing authorities.
Here are some thoughts, quotes and pictures from people who attended the events.
Dayton, OH
One of the most impactful moments of the Father’s Day Summer Celebration was when a 7th grade boy read the poem “Slow Down Daddy”. The words of the poem impacted the crowd and set the stage for the speakers from area agencies who stressed the importance of the father taking an active role in the lives of his children and non-violent conflict resolution. Our self-sufficiency department also provided agencies that had information for not only the fathers who attended the event but also the mothers and children who were present. This event was a wonderful opportunity for the community to bond in the common goal of promoting fatherhood and a great chance to encourage strong parenting.
- Gregory D. Johnson CEO, Dayton Metropolitan Housing Authority
Fort Worth, TX
As I walked around, I noticed something quite encouraging. I saw men of all ages attending to the needs of their children. I saw men feeding babies, carrying diaper bags, pushing strollers, nurturing and playing games with their kids. I also saw men seriously engaged in conversation with the community service providers asking questions and obtaining information. I even recall seeing a few men jump in and help out when needed with some of the heavy equipment. Father’s Day 2011 was a successful event and it accomplished much for the families in our community. I was proud to be a part of it. You can see pictures of the event thanks to Wayne Pollard, Director of the Tarrant County Housing Assistance Office.
- Barbara Holston President and CEO, Fort Worth Housing Authority
What I noted most was the huge amount of time and effort the housing authority gave to make the day special for the families. The staff was very interactive and warm toward the families. There was community support, sponsorship, resource materials and great food and activities. My work does not often offer opportunities to directly interact with the families served by HUD programs. I witnessed families having an awesome time, and observed proud fathers with their children.
- Charles Eldridge, HUD Senior Public Housing Revitalization Specialist
Charles Eldridge and Fort Worth CEO Barbara Holston
In honor of Father’s Day, the White House recognized 15 Champions of Change who are standing in the gap for our kids, and serving their families, their communities and our nation. Along with Michael Strautmanis from the Office of Public Engagement, Joshua DuBois facilitated a discussion with these fathers and leaders as everyone shared our stories about what fatherhood meant to them and how each person had contributed to strengthening fatherhood in their own lives and in their communities.
Below are links to some of the stories the Champions of Change shared in the discussion. Some stories of those of redemption. Others are about the supportive role that mothers, grandparents and mentors play when fathers aren’t around. More than one is about a father who initially didn’t fully understand his responsibilities, but came to recognize the sacredness of being a dad.
Thabiti Boone - Raising Awareness on the Importance of Fatherhood
Steve Crawford - Connecting Fathers with Their Schools
Carlos Duran - Responsible Fatherhood for Future Generations
George Gordon - All Because of My Son
Thomas Green III - Fatherhood and the Road to Recovery
Jonathan Mayo - Empowering Urban Young Adults
Dr. Roderick Mitchell - Engaging Fathers to Stop Domestic Violence
Alfred Plummer - Equipping Men to Become Better Fathers
Mary Polk - The Impact of Invisible Fathers
Eric Schurz - Overcoming Life Struggles with Fatherhood in the Tribal Community
In addition to the stories below, we heard from Matt Baker about how faith communities can strengthen values that have helped him be a father in the midst of a career in business, George P. McAndrews talked about his role as a grandfather not only to his biological children but also to foster children in his children’s homes , and Adam Tenner talked about how important it is for him and his partner to be a strong father for their child.
In the future, we will highlight blog posts from Daniel Jenkins who is a Top Dog Dad with the Watch DOGS program and Christopher Cady, recipient for the 2011 Military Fatherhood Award from the National Fatherhood Initiative.
Bringing your attention to these stories is just one more way their importance of fathers extends beyond Fathers Day in the Year of Strong Fathers, Strong Families.
Ben O'Dell serves as Associate Director at the HHS Partnerships Center promoting the importance of fatherhood.
Blog Categories
Topics
En respuesta al llamado del presidente Obama para una conversación nacional sobre la paternidad responsable y las familias saludables, aprender cómo usted puede unirse a la Iniciativa Presidencial de Padres y Mentores.