On the evening of June 13, the Park Signature Suite in Roselle Park came alive with purpose and connection as the Union County Fatherhood Initiative Coalition (UCFIC) hosted its “Healthy Fathers, Building Healthy and Strong Families” Pre-Father’s Day Celebration.

More than just an event, it was a powerful gathering of fathers, families, and community allies united by a shared commitment to building stronger families through the empowerment of fathers. Hosted by UCFIC and supported by the Fatherhood Initiative, the evening created a safe and welcoming space to explore the evolving role of dads in today’s society, with a special focus on healthy co-parenting.

The program featured a diverse panel of speakers who brought a holistic lens to the conversation:

  • Jerol Barnes offered insights from a legal and practical standpoint.

  • Pastor Gloria Walton spoke to the spiritual importance of strong family bonds.

  • Derelle Reid shared his journey of fatherhood and growth.

  • Andrew Burch, a clinical professional, provided a mental health and wellness perspective.

Their words were moving, honest, and deeply relatable. Fathers in the audience opened up, sharing their own stories, struggles, and hopes. The room buzzed with honesty, encouragement, and a collective desire to grow not just as individuals but as parents, partners, and community leaders.

For UCFIC, this is the heart of the work. Through year-round programs like Dad Talk, workshop initiatives, annual educational and empowering conference and strategic partnerships with community-based organizations, UCFIC continues advocating for fathers, providing support networks, and helping build the emotional, economic, and social health of families.

When fathers are supported, educated, and engaged, entire communities benefit. And when we come together, across professions, backgrounds, and generations, we move closer to a future where every child grows up with the full strength of family behind them.

This celebration laid the foundation for deeper work ahead. UCFIC is proud to lead this movement, one father and one family at a time.