August Message from Carol Jackson, Executive Director
Posted August 6, 2025
| In every class we hold, I am reminded of the incredible power that hope provides. For the men who attend our programs, hope is more than just a word – it is a lifeline, a guiding light that shapes their journey and, ultimately, their legacy.
When a father chooses to invest in himself by learning new skills, strengthening relationships, and setting positive examples, he is planting seeds for the future. These seeds grow into confidence, character, and courage in their children’s lives. This is the true power of legacy: it is not measured by what we leave behind, but by what we build within the hearts of those who follow us. Our classes are more than lessons; they are opportunities for fathers to rediscover their worth and their ability to create change. Every moment spent learning and growing is a declaration of hope for stronger families, thriving children, and communities built on love and resilience. To every father in our program, understand this: the legacy you’re creating is significant. Your presence matters, and your hope will resonate through future generations. Local journalist David Waters whose career spans years at The Commercial Appeal, The Daily Memphian and the Institute for Public Service Reporting, authored a powerful story about hope in his recurring column called Faith in Memphis. It serves as a fitting reminder that faith and hope are the foundations of transformation. At Families Matter, we see this truth every day in the fathers we serve. Hope motivates them to learn, grow, and build a better future, not only for themselves but also for their children. Every skill they acquire and every positive decision they make creates a ripple effect across generations. This is the legacy of fatherhood: sharing lives with love, strength, and vision. Join us in our effort to support boys, young men, and adults by creating essential programs that decrease the need for crisis intervention and help more families succeed from the beginning. Together, we can transform hope into action and build a future where strong families are the norm, not the exception. Thank you for helping us strengthen families, change lives, and transform Memphis. Just look at the impact* our fatherhood programs have had right here in our great city: |
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| *Families Matter AFIRM (A Father’s Involvement Really Matters) Fatherhood Training and Program Outcomes as of June 30, 2025.
The Families Matter team is grateful to all of our program participants and supporters who have made these amazing achievements a reality. Thank you for allowing us to do this work together. |
| Thank you,
Carol A. Jackson Executive Director |
