Spotlight On Men

Jerome Thomas — ”That Dad”

Mr. Jerome Thomas started off kind of lost, not knowing what to do to help with the education and rearing aspect of his children. Once he was given the tools and resources to lead his children into a better tomorrow he soared into his role as a leader, mentor, coach, and PTA affiliate. We see the excitement in his face about education when he is walking down the school hallways telling the students no running, take off your hoodie, get to class. He not only influences his children, but other students around him too. He has been a father for 30 years, having a commitment to his children's education the whole time.

Through his twin children he realized to have success he needs to be “that dad”. We all know that dad, the one that may show up to everything. We all have encounters of “that dad” at any given time, for the good of the children. He is “that dad”, who not only takes care of his own but becomes “that dad” to students he coaches and mentors.

Jerome is a dad that does not give up. He will not conform to mediocre grades on his children’s report card. When he sees that his children’s grades are going down, he makes sure that he gets them the tutoring and the help that they need. As president of the PTA at Charles Drew, Mr. Thomas is always active trying to recruit parents so that they too can be the voice of not only their children but other children who don’t have the support they need to succeed. He also coaches a boys basketball team. I’m sure you can guess that the ones who don’t have their fathers present look up to Jerome Thomas as that father figure in their lives.

Mr. Thomas’ belief of parent involvement ineducation should be shared and modeled as the example of what parental involvement looks like. He is humble, sincere, and driven for the future of all children in his community if we could hand Mr. Thomas theworld on a pedestal for his dedication to the community, we would gladly do so.

Mr. Thomas is like the father to all the kids. He not only takes care of his own, but he makes sure that the others that are around his children are also safe. I remember whenI first met Mr. Thomas, he was in a battle with the school, because there was no cross guard on one of the major streets where the children had to cross to get to school. He asked, complained, and searched until he was guided to the people who could really make it happen, and it did, thanks to Jerome Thomas.

We salute you, Mr. Thomas

Raymode Reyes, We Rise Miami

nthewayto…beingabetterDad

Men as Leaders in 2023!

Lately I have been watching some reruns of “Gunsmoke” with Marshall Dillon, Miss Kitty, Festus and Chester. Its filmed in black & white so its probably even older than some of us! What fascinates me is that in each one hour episode an important value topic is explored. At the end, Marshall Dillon presents us with a clearly framed picture of what it looked like to be a Man and a Role-model at that time.

Things are not so clear today. Which is maybe as it should be. The strong, silent type from the 50’s and 60’s has evolved, just as our society has moved from agrarian to manufacturing and on to technological.

But some things remain firmly the same. The virtues and character traits that we need in our male role models are the same today as they have always been. Integrity, honesty, reliability, loving, faithfulness are just as important today as they have ever been. Maybe even more so because they are just not on display in the ways society portrays men and fathers. I like to roll these virtues and character traits up into LEADERSHIP! We will spend the next few months taking a closer look at what Leadership is today and why its important to our children.

Here are some suggestions for things you might be able to do or think about even now:

1. Spend quality time with your children: Set aside time to spend with your children doing things they enjoy, such as playing games, reading books, or going on outings. This will help you build a strong bond with your children and create lasting memories.

2. Listen to your children: Take the time to listen to your children when they talk to you. Show them that you value their thoughts and feelings, and encourage them to express themselves.

3. Be involved in their education: Attend parent-teacher conferences, help with homework, and volunteer at school events. This will show your children that you value their education and are invested in their success.

4. Model positive behavior: Children learn from the behaviors they see, so it's important to model positive behaviors, such as being kind, respectful, and responsible. This will help your children develop these same qualities.

5. Teach life skills: Teach your children life skills, such as cooking, cleaning, and budgeting. This will help them become independent and self-sufficient adults.

6. Be supportive: Support your children in their interests and hobbies, and encourage them to pursue their passions. This will help them develop confidence and self-esteem.

Remember, engaging with your children requires a consistent effort and a willingness to be present and attentive. By showing your children that you love and care for them, you can help them develop into happy, healthy, and successful adults.

Mark Baker Dads Club Live