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HACLA’s non-profit affiliate, Kids Progress Inc., in conjunction with The Department of Housing and Urban Development hosted a Father’s Day Luncheon at the Jordan Downs Gym on Saturday, June 18, 2011 from 11am-2pm which was a huge success! With over 100 fathers in attendance from Jordan Downs, this luncheon showcased fathers and their commitment to the lives of their children. Partnering with several Watts community groups such as We Care Outreach Ministries, Watts United, Motivated Mothers of Jordan Downs, Jordan Downs Youth Action Squad, the Jordan Downs Community Advisory Committee and Watts Healthcare Corporation, this luncheon was the first of its kind and offered a way to highlight the positive things fathers do in the Watts community. A panel from various father-friendly organizations joined to discuss issues fathers face while offering key solutions in spite of everyday obstacles. Panel participants included: Dr. Ronald Banks, Director of Project Fatherhood, Children’s Institute Inc., Terrance Russell, Jordan Downs Resident, Aaron Pineda, Jordan Downs Resident, Roderick Elzy, Fatherhood Initiative, Gerald Thompson, Pathways To Your Future and Marvin Espinoza, First 5 LA, Watts/Willowbrook. Drew Childcare Corporation provided the childcare for the event which also included a magician, face painting and a variety of arts and crafts to keep the children occupied. Councilwoman Janice Hahn sent a representative and provided Commendations to Pastor Mike Cummings, Andre Christian and Johnny Bailey for their leadership with Project Fatherhood and their tireless efforts in recruiting Fathers for Project Fatherhood. The highlight of the event included fathers who were honored for their involvement with their children and the trophy gifts that were presented to the participants in Project Fatherhood.
Kids Progress Inc., received a grant to conduct Project Fatherhood, sponsored by Children’s Institute, Inc. which seeks to build stronger relationships between fathers and their children. Project Fatherhood meets every Wednesday at the Jordan Downs Community Center at 5pm. Join us!
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