MAC's Fathers Conference Advances Leadership, Wellness, and Celebrates Impact in Community

The Metropolitan Action Commission (MAC) will host its 3rd Annual Father II (to) Father Legacy and Wellness Conference, on Thursday, May 21 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Metropolitan Action Commission headquarters (1281 Murfreesboro Pike).

The conference is a powerful event celebrating the vital role of fathers and male figures in the lives of young children enrolled in Metro Action's Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

At the conclusion of the conference, Metro Action Commission will host its special "Honors for Fathers" and "Father of the Year" Awards Ceremony, recognizing fathers from MAC early education centers across the city for their engagement, leadership, participation, and commitment to their children and families throughout the school year.

This year's ceremony will feature special recognition presented by Nashville Mayor, Freddie O'Connell, who will join MAC's Executive Director Jamekia Bies, honoring selected fathers for their meaningful impact within their families and the broader community.

Throughout the conference, participants will hear from former and current Father II Father participants, community leaders, presenters, and guest speakers who will share personal stories, encouragement, and pathways toward leadership, legacy building, and personal growth. The conference also features a robust lineup of on site workshops and community resources designed to support families, strengthen economic mobility, and promote overall well being.

"Our focus is to ensure attendees have direct access to the resources that strengthen financial stability, support personal well being, and expand economic opportunity," said MAC Executive Director Jamekia Bies. "From financial guidance and homeownership support to workforce services, reentry resources, and family engagement programs, we are committed to connecting residents with the tools they need to thrive."

Community partners and organizations participating this year include: The Mayor's Office of Civic and Community Engagement, American Job Center, Metro Criminal Court Clerk's Office of Expungements, Dismas House of Nashville, Urban League of Middle Tennessee, Metro and MAC Human Resources, financial institutions, workforce agencies, behavioral health organizations, and additional community support focused on strengthening families and communities.

The MAC Father II Father program is a part of the Metro Action's broader efforts to address poverty and build strong families through a Whole Family/2 Gen Approach. The program focuses on engaging fathers and male figures in the lives of children enrolled in the agency's preschool and early education program as well as creating pathways to greater opportunities for economic and social mobility.