Midway Center’s Holiday Luncheon features father engagement

At our Midway Center’s Holiday Luncheon, staff came together with board members, community partners, and friends of the Center to celebrate the holidays and this year’s successes in empowering children and families.

Starting with a welcome from Executive Director Laurie Sedio, the program featured a common denominator: father engagement across Metropolitan.

Guest speaker Erenida Morales, Early Learning Mental Health Consultant with Metropolitan, spoke about the impact of parental relationships on a child’s developing mind. Justin Harty, Doctoral Student at the University of Chicago’s School of Social Service Administration, discussed the value of father engagement. Leah Rimkus, Senior Outcomes and Evaluation Analyst with Metropolitan, gave a status on the father-friendly practices throughout Metropolitan.

Honoree Ed Davies, of Children’s Home + Aid, received the Outstanding Partner tribute for his work as Director of the Power of Fathers Initiative. Power of Fathers, an innovative collaboration of four agencies — Metropolitan Family Services, Children’s Home & Aid, Family Focus, and Fathers, Families and Healthy Communities — focuses on improving outcomes for children by improving the life circumstances of their fathers.

Staff individually recognized Gerst Family Young Fathers Program graduates Stacey and Joseph, as well as Metropolitan Learning & Wellness Center father Glenn.

A performance from the Bachata Dance Team at Hubbard High School, a group supported by Metropolitan Midway’s Community Schools program, put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Special thanks to Rep. Celina Villanueva for joining us and learning about Metropolitan Family Services Midway!