NY Fathering Conference examines healthy masculinity, mentorship
The conference was held at the Westchester County Center in White Plains.
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Hundreds of fathers came together in White Plains on Tuesday to learn, share and redefine what modern fatherhood looks like.
Jose Colon said being a dad can be tough at times.
"We have moments where we don't know what to do, we have moments where we're frustrated, we have moments where we have self-doubt," Colon said.
It's one of the reasons why the New York Fathering Conference exists. Frank Williams Jr. is a conference committee member.
"The point of the conference is to put a spotlight on the needs of fathers...And to offer opportunities and resources to help them move into the community," Williams Jr. said.
Organizers said the conference has been hosted 11 times.
This year's event took place at the County Center in White Plains. The theme focused on mentorship and community transformation.
Speaker and "A Call to Men" founder Tony Porter also emphasized the need for healthy masculinity.
"We have boys growing up, being taught what it means to be a man by online influencers, instead of us. They're getting all their information online. They need to be getting their information from we, we, as men," Porter said.
The crowd participated in discussions and listened to panels.
The various activities helped attendee Lonnie Reel Jr. walk away with more than just parenting tips.
"This teaches more about myself, about my life. What more can I contribute to the community and that's one of the reasons why I'm here," Reel Jr. said.
Overall, organizers said the day was designed to empower fathers and remind them of their important role in building strong communities.
