Father’s Day Symposium

Lt to Rt: Michael McKnight, Fatherhood Facilitator- Buffalo Prenatal Perinatal Network (BPPN) Fatherhood Initiative, Terry Seay, Manager of BPPN Fatherhood Initiative, and Antoine Johnson, Program Success Director at National Fatherhood Initiative

Buffalo, NY — The Buffalo Fatherhood Initiative at Buffalo Prenatal-Peri natal Network (BPPN) proudly hosted its 2025 Father’s Day Symposium on Saturday, June 7th. Sponsored by the New York State Office of Mental Health WNY Field Office, this event celebrated the vital role of fathers in our community and spotlighted the proven impact of BPPN’s Father hood Initiative. Held in a warm and welcoming setting, the symposium brought together program fathers and their families for a heartfelt meal, during which several dads were honored with awards and recognition.

Powerful keynote addresses were delivered by Christopher St. Vil, PhD, MSW, and Robert Robinson III, each offering messages of healing, empowerment, and reflection. Dr. St. Vil emphasized the importance of “Presence over Presents” in regard to father hood, while Mr. Robinson addressed the importance of emotional healing as a foundation for personal growth.

Lt to Rt: Isaiah Gray, Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, Daniel Roberts, Eric Maldonado, and Pastor Tommy McClam- Partners and Supports of BPPN’s Fatherhood Initiative

“The purpose of this event was to recognize the incredible fathers in our community and the dedicated support ers of our program,” said Terry Seay, Manager of the Fatherhood Initiative. “It’s also an opportunity to bring dads and loved ones together—to instill a sense of camaraderie and collective purpose.”

The Buffalo Fatherhood Initiative is designed to support and uplift fathers across Buffalo by promoting responsible parenting, healthy relationships, and economic stability. Through mentorship, one-on-one sup port, and skill-building, the program helps fathers strengthen parenting abilities, deepen family bonds, and become positive role models. As a cornerstone of BPPN’s work, the initiative plays a vital role in creating healthier families and stronger communities.

Stay Connected: BPPN’s Fatherhood Initiative encourages the community to remain engaged year-round. To learn more about avail able services or ways to support this impactful work, visit www.bppn. org or call 716-884-6711. Follow BPPN on Face book, Instagram, and LinkedIn to see stories of transformation & success in action.