While discussions around child-rearing frequently revolve around the roles and responsibilities of mothers — and the struggle to balance a successful family life with a successful professional life — a strong father can be an equally important figure in a child’s life.
Two upcoming events are focused on empowering fathers and ensuring they have access to resources for their physical and mental health and careers to help them remain positive role models for their families.
Hey Black Dad, an organization dedicated to empowering fathers and enhancing maternal healthcare outcomes, hosts its third annual Fall Fest on Saturday, November 2, from noon to 4 p.m. at Mill Hill Park in downtown Trenton. The family-friendly event (with a rain date set for Saturday, November 9) features a lively array of activities, including a costume parade, entertainment, food, music, and more.
The Fall Fest began as part of founder Peter Bullock’s mission to support fathers in understanding their role in pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. Bullock, a certified birth and postpartum doula, was inspired to create Hey Black Dad after realizing the lack of resources available for expectant fathers. Today, his organization provides guidance to families nationwide through virtual and in-person support.
“Becoming a father is one of the main rites of passage in a man’s life. As a male doula, I get to guide fathers throughout the process and educate them on their role as a dad and as a partner. It’s very rewarding,” says Bullock. “I like to see fathers smiling and knowing that they have a space both outside of childbirth and within the childbirth experience.”
The Fall Fest provides an opportunity for families to gather, learn, and celebrate. Among the day’s highlights, DJ Special K keeps the energy high with music, while the Trenton Circus Squad performs and offers lessons in juggling and balancing acts. The drumline from Trenton Central High School also leads a costume parade through the park.
Specialized activity areas will cater to different age groups: toddlers (age 5 and under) can explore farm-themed activities, a sand pit, and games, while older children will enjoy a treasure hunt, bounce house, and obstacle course. For parents, the Dad’s Den and Momma’s Cove will offer a chance to relax and connect. Additionally, community partners like The Father Center of New Jersey, the Central New Jersey Family Health Consortium, and the Preeclampsia Foundation will be on-site to provide resources and support.
“I see a need for more community- and family-centered events in the city of Trenton,” Bullock explains. He and his wife, Donna, are making them happen, just as they recognized the need for more education and resources for dad, and made that happen by founding Hey Black Dad.
“Because of Hey Black Dad, more men understand they have an important role when it comes to the birth of their child. We want them to feel confident in that role. They have a lot to offer,” he adds. “The success of this festival could not have been possible without the vision and research done by my wife, Donna.”
For more information, visit eventeny.com/events/heyblackdadfallfest-13534 or www.heyblackdads.com.
The Father Center of New Jersey (TFCNJ) holds its second annual Statewide Fatherhood Conference on Thursday, November 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in New Brunswick, NJ. Themed “Stronger Fathers BUILD Stronger Families,” the event emphasizes the critical role of fatherhood in building strong families and thriving communities.
The conference gathers leading experts, including keynote speaker Dr. Reggie Wright, to explore topics central to fatherhood and community development. This free event, led by Bryan Evans, CEO of The Father Center of New Jersey, is designed to equip social workers, mental health professionals, caseworkers, and community leaders with tools to help fathers become engaged, effective parents.
“At The Father Center, we believe that fostering strong fathers uplifts entire families and communities. The conference is an opportunity for professionals who work with fathers to gain critical insights, network and learn techniques to strengthen family units,” Evans said.
The Father Center remains committed to highlighting the importance of fatherhood in both family life and community well-being. This conference will showcase how fathers play a key role in building resilient families and robust communities, offering attendees strategies and resources to empower fathers.
Wright, a native of Trenton, former professional basketball player, and renowned motivational speaker, delivers the keynote address. Wright’s personal journey — overcoming adversity to achieve success — fuels his passion for community service. He shares his insights on how fathers can bridge the academic achievement gap and raise resilient children.
“I’m passionate about helping fathers realize their potential to shape not only their children’s futures but the future of our society. I’m honored to speak at this year’s Statewide Fatherhood Conference and share insights that can help fathers and families thrive,” Wright said.
Wright holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from New Jersey City University, a master’s degree from Cairn University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. He is the founder of Reggie Wright Enterprises, is a mentor with Raising Black Men, and serves on the Board of Directors of The Charlie & Tonja Ward Family Foundation.
Anyone working in the social services, mental health, housing or community organizations is encouraged to attend the conference. The conference takes place at the DCF Office of Training and Professional Development, 30 Van Dyke Avenue, New Brunswick For more information or to register, visit thefathercenter.org or call 609-695-3663.
Peter and Donna Bullock's organization, Hey Black Dad, holds its Fall Fest on Saturday, November 2. ,
