“Breakfast with Dads” Event in Dallas Unites Community and Inspires Hope

At Dr. Billy Earl Dade Middle School in Dallas, Texas, an annual event called “Breakfast with Dads” has become a cherished tradition. The event is designed to encourage fathers and father figures to connect with their students, fostering relationships and creating a sense of support for the young boys in attendance. However, this year, a challenge arose: some students didn’t sign up because they didn’t have a father or father figure to invite.

Principal Tracie Washington was deeply concerned about this. She wanted every student to feel included and supported during the event. That’s when Kristina Dove, one of the event organizers, came up with a heartfelt solution. She turned to Facebook, posting a call for volunteers to step in as “dads” for the day. Her initial goal was modest—she hoped to find 50 men willing to participate.

What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. Dove’s post quickly went viral, resonating with people across Dallas and beyond. Within days, over 600 men volunteered to attend the event, far exceeding expectations. The overwhelming response showed the power of community and the willingness of strangers to step up for children in need.

A Morning of Mentorship and Connection

Among the volunteers was Archie Nettles, a motivational speaker and Army veteran. For Nettles, the decision to participate was personal. He understood the importance of having a role model and mentor, especially for boys who might lack a father figure in their lives.

When the big day arrived, the school auditorium was transformed into a lively and welcoming space. As the students entered, their eyes widened with surprise and excitement at the sight of hundreds of men waiting to meet them. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, smiles, and a sense of belonging.

One of the highlights of the morning was a simple yet meaningful activity: the men taught the boys how to tie a necktie. This small gesture carried a powerful message of care, guidance, and mentorship. For many of the boys, it was their first time learning this skill, and it set a positive tone for the event.

After the breakfast, one student shared his joy about gaining a mentor, expressing how much it meant to him to have someone take the time to connect with him. It was a moment that underscored the profound impact of the event on the students.

Beyond the Breakfast: Building a Legacy

The success of “Breakfast with Dads” didn’t end with the event. Dove and her coworker are now working to keep the momentum going. They are collaborating with the volunteers to involve them in other community initiatives, aiming to create long-term mentorship opportunities for the students.

Their ultimate goal is to inspire similar efforts in other cities, showing children that they are cared for and supported, regardless of their circumstances. “We want these kids to know that where they come from doesn’t define where they can go,” Dove explained.

For the boys of South Dallas, the message was clear: they are not alone, and they have a community that believes in their potential.

A Movement of Hope and Inspiration

The overwhelming response to this year’s “Breakfast with Dads” event has sparked a movement of hope and inspiration. It’s a reminder of the power of community and the difference that even small acts of kindness can make in a child’s life.

As Dove and her team continue their work, they hope to inspire others to step up and show children everywhere that they are valued and loved. For the students of Dr. Billy Earl Dade Middle School, the event was more than just breakfast—it was a powerful affirmation of their worth and potential.

And for the men who volunteered, it was a chance to make a difference, one necktie at a time.

Each year, Dr. Billy Earl Dade Middle School in Dallas, Texas, holds a “Breakfast with Dads” event to encourage fathers and father figures to connect with their students. Many of these students come from challenging backgrounds.

This year, some kids didn’t sign up for the breakfast because they didn’t have a father or father figure to invite. Principal Tracie Washington was worried about this. Kristina Dove, who helped organize the event, suggested asking for volunteers on Facebook to serve as “dads” for the day. She aimed to find 50 men, but her post quickly went viral and attracted 600 volunteers.

One of the volunteers, Archie Nettles, a motivational speaker and Army veteran, felt it was important to support boys who might lack a dad or mentor. When the students entered the auditorium and saw all the men, they were surprised and excited to talk to them.

The breakfast included an activity where the men taught the boys how to tie a necktie, which set a positive tone for the event. Afterward, one student expressed his joy about gaining a mentor.

Dove and her coworker are now working to keep these men involved in community initiatives and hope to inspire similar efforts in other cities. They aim to show the children in South Dallas that they are cared for and that their circumstances do not limit their potential.