This Black History Month, TNC would like to spotlight one of our newer partners, The Black Daddies Club (BDC). Founded in 2008 by Brandon Hay, the Black Daddies Club was created to give Black fathers a community where it may have been lacking before. BDC builds opportunities for fathers and their families to gather and discuss the commonalities and issues in the Black community.
This spring, TNC was fortunate enough to attend one of their most impressive initiatives, the Black Families Un-Conference Weekend, a three-day two-night family camp weekend that is in its third year of operation. The Un-Conference is presented to families as a retreat that is built by and for Black families. All participants are given the opportunity for rest, relaxation and immersion in nature, while being supported by BDC staff, and on site therapists and councilors.
As a weekend participant TNC was able to observe the important work of family unification, joy and exploration, and the creation of new friendships between participants. Most impressively, the Un-Conference was a place where families were able to try new things and challenge themselves in a safe and carefree environment, while creating lifelong friendships.
We are so excited about the various ways BDC is able to create and sustain community, and we are particularly excited to see how the Black Families Un-Conference evolves over time.
We also want to highlight an upcoming event BDC is hosting on March 1st: Sunday Dinner: How Do We Love Now?, A Conversation with Black Men, an evening of connection, reflection, and meaningful dialogue. If you, or someone you know may be interested you can learn more here.
Photo credit: Jermaine Bagnall, sevenzeromedia