Dad Network

Dad Network "Unlock Your Potential as a Father: Enhance Your Parenting Skills with Fatherhood's Expert Guidance" Motivational Speaker

01/14/2026

Thoughts on being a man and finding your purpose.

01/14/2026

🚨WARNING-Get Your Own Affairs In Order…Before You Criticize Others…It’s easy to blame society and others for your shortcomings -Address your own life’s problems, your behaviors, your environment, the decisions you make when nobody is watching you.

01/08/2026

Mr. Parker and Dr. Elston discuss 2026 goals and share personal New Year's resolutions!

01/02/2026

🎊HAPPY NEW YEAR 2026🎊
As we step into a new year, I’m reminded that fatherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s about showing up, learning as we go, and choosing love even on the hard days. This year, I commit to listening more, leading with patience, and setting an example rooted in integrity, faith, and purpose.

To my children: may this year bring you confidence in who you are, courage to chase your dreams, and comfort in knowing your father is always in your corner. Everything I strive for is so you can stand taller, go further, and never doubt your worth.

Here’s to another year of growth, grace, and building a legacy that starts at home. Happy New Year.

12/17/2025

Reflections on the First Class of the Last Cohort for 2025: Mr. Parker and Dr. Elston

In this reflective piece, Mr. Parker and Dr. Elston share their insights and experiences as they conclude the first class of the 2025 cohort. EPISODE #1

Big thanks toElijah Bailey, Deven Jackson, Pilar Brewsterfor all your support! Congrats for being top fans on a streak 🔥...
12/17/2025

Big thanks to

Elijah Bailey, Deven Jackson, Pilar Brewster

for all your support! Congrats for being top fans on a streak 🔥!

Why do many men find it challenging to ask for help? For many, it feels harder than tackling the problem itself. This st...
12/01/2025

Why do many men find it challenging to ask for help? For many, it feels harder than tackling the problem itself. This struggle can be observed in leadership, relationships, and personal challenges, often stemming from a quiet pressure to manage everything independently.

1. Cultural conditioning runs deep. From a young age, boys are often taught to be self-sufficient, tough, and unemotional. Admitting the need for support can feel like breaking an unwritten rule.

2. Asking for help is often seen as a sign of weakness. Many men fear that seeking assistance—whether at work or home—signals incompetence. In reality, it reflects emotional intelligence, humility, and a commitment to growth.

3. The “fix-it” mentality can hinder progress. Men are frequently socialized to be problem-solvers. When an issue arises, asking for help can lead to discomfort and frustration.

4. The absence of safe spaces is significant. Many men lack environments where vulnerability is normalized. Without psychological safety, silence often becomes the default.

The truth is that asking for help is a strength multiplier. It accelerates progress, builds trust, and prevents burnout. The leaders and men who thrive are not those who shoulder everything alone; they are the ones who recognize when to reach out.

Let’s normalize support, connection, and redefine strength.





11/29/2025

Finding forgiveness and acceptance is crucial for these men’s successful reintegration into society after release. This process is multifaceted and complex. One aspect we address during our 12-week program is this. Eric Elston, Ed.D Marsha Briley, OWDS-I, GCDF Del. Gary Simmons

1. Psychological and Emotional Healing:
• Addressing Guilt and Shame: Many incarcerated individuals carry immense guilt and shame over their actions and the harm they've caused. Unresolved guilt can be crippling, leading to depression, anxiety, and self-destructive behaviors. Forgiveness, particularly self-forgiveness, allows them to process these emotions rather than being consumed by them.

We’re proud to announce that CATCH Maryland has officially partnered with the University of Maryland Medical Center to c...
11/12/2025

We’re proud to announce that CATCH Maryland has officially partnered with the University of Maryland Medical Center to create life-changing opportunities for our formerly incarcerated men.
Through this partnership, participants in our program will have the opportunity to volunteer at UMMC, gain hands-on experience in a professional healthcare environment, and build pathways toward long-term careers upon completing their volunteer service.
At CATCH Maryland, we believe that second chances build stronger communities. By connecting our participants with meaningful work in healthcare, we’re not only transforming individual lives — we’re strengthening the fabric of Maryland’s workforce and community care.
A huge thank you to the University of Maryland Medical Center team for opening their doors and hearts to this critical mission. Together, we’re proving that redemption, service, and opportunity go hand in hand.
Kudos to our team for making this happen! Eric Elston, Ed.D., and Marsha Briley, OWDS-I, GCDF. Special thanks to Del. Gary Simmons for supporting the vision and program!

Today, I celebrate Elijah's journey as he embarked on a new chapter, returning to his community, his son, and establishi...
11/03/2025

Today, I celebrate Elijah's journey as he embarked on a new chapter, returning to his community, his son, and establishing his own landscaping business. Witnessing transformation unfold as we cultivate spaces for healing is truly fulfilling. My life's mission revolves around nurturing and empowering individuals to foster a sense of family and support. Each step taken is a testament to the impact of rebuilding lives, one person at a time. 💭If you believe everyone deserves a second chance, drop a like,👍🏾,❤️ or comment below.

09/30/2025

“Showing up” for someone goes beyond just physical presence — it’s about emotional, mental, and relational commitment.

✨ Blessed and honored ✨A huge thank you to Campbell’s Chapel AME Church for inviting me to speak on Men’s Day. 🙏🏽It was ...
09/29/2025

✨ Blessed and honored ✨
A huge thank you to Campbell’s Chapel AME Church for inviting me to speak on Men’s Day. 🙏🏽

It was a privilege to stand among such strong men of faith and fellowship. Grateful for the warm welcome, the powerful worship, and the opportunity to share a word with the congregation.

Address

1919 Commerce Drive, Suite 480
Hampton, VA
23666

Telephone

+1 757-851-0101

Website

http://f15.fatherhood.org/cfk, http://www.catchvirginia.com/

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Category

Creating healthy fatherhood connections.

As a trained facilitator for NFI fatherhood programs, the country’s leading provider of fatherhood programs. Darnell W. Parker Sr. has facilitated various classes in multiple settings. Nationally recognized for his work. Mr. Parker tells his participants, “You are superheroes in your child’s life, whether you know it or not.” Each NFI program is evidenced based and works toward the prevention of father absences in the child’s life. Fathers must learn to value the moral beliefs of caring for oneself, others, and the environment. The hope is to one day these fathers will begin to teach and model the morals and education they learn while attending a NFI fatherhood program.