On August 8, the Buckner Rio Grande Children’s Home hosted the Fatherhood Summit 2024, a powerful event organized by the Buckner Family Hope Center® at Peñitas and the Family and Youth Success (FAYS) program.

The summit’s theme, “24/7 Dad,” underscored the importance of fathers being present and engaged in their children’s lives every single day. This gathering of fathers from across the Rio Grande Valley was more than just an event; it was a celebration of fatherhood, filled with inspiration, learning and community.

Attendees were welcomed with dinner and the atmosphere was warm and inviting, setting the tone for an evening of fellowship and growth. The city of Palmview's mayor, Rick Villarreal, began the summit with an opening prayer, grounding the gathering in gratitude and purpose.

The evening’s entertainment was provided by JRod Illusions, a local magician known for his show, "Healing the Inner Child." His performance was not just about magic tricks but about reconnecting with the playful and joyful aspects of ourselves, often lost in the responsibilities of adulthood. It was a perfect prelude to the deeper discussions that followed.

One of the key presentations of the summit was, “Restoring Relationships - A Session with Questions and Answers,” led by Mauricio Piña and Jesus T. Peña.

Mauricio shared a personal story about his daughter’s kickball experience, where he realized he might have been too hard on her. Through the counsel of Jesus T. Peña and the support of the RGV Dads network, Mauricio was able to repair the relationship and gain valuable insight into being a more understanding and supportive father. This session highlighted the importance of having a strong support network and the courage to seek advice when needed.

Fidencio Mercado from the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley delved into the topic of healthy masculinity. He discussed the concept of “machismo,” explaining how it can be channeled positively to protect and provide for our families. Fidencio shared practical strategies for healthy coping, including the importance of prayer, exercise and identifying support systems.

His talk resonated deeply, offering a fresh perspective on masculinity in today’s world.

The open forum panel that followed was a space for fathers to ask questions and share their thoughts on various issues. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of having a place where fathers can come together to discuss the challenges and joys of raising a family. The panel provided valuable insights, adding to each father’s toolbox as they continue to lead their families with wisdom and strength.

The summit concluded with a fun raffle, where dads won gift card prizes, and everyone received swag bags filled with items any father would appreciate. The event ended on a high note with a group prayer, bringing everyone together in unity and faith. A group picture was taken to commemorate the event, capturing the smiles and camaraderie of the evening.

As the fathers left the summit, there was a palpable sense of anticipation for the next gathering. The Fatherhood Summit 2024 was not just an event; it was the beginning of a journey. A journey of continuous growth, support and commitment to being the best fathers we can be—24/7.

Written by Jesus Peña, member of RGV Dads and attendee of the Fatherhood Summit.

Learn more about strengthening your family through a Buckner Family Hope Center® today.