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CoolxDad Fosters Family Bonds and Eradicate Negative Stereotypes in Support for Fathers of Color

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Founded in 2020 by Kevin Barnett, CoolxDad has quickly become a vital organization that uplifts and inspires fathers, offering a range of programs and initiatives to foster strong family bonds and eradicate negative stereotypes. We recently had the opportunity to learn more about this remarkable organization and its journey, including its recognition with a BANF grant.

CoolxDad’s Origin

Kevin Barnett, a husband, and father of two, embarked on creating CoolxDad during a tumultuous time in history. The organization’s birth coincided with the global Black Lives Matter movement, a pandemic, and the tragic murder of George Floyd. Witnessing the pain and suffering faced by Black and brown men, many of whom were fathers, Kevin decided to take action. Growing up without a consistent father figure, he was determined to navigate fatherhood differently. Today, Kevin serves as the executive director of CoolxDad. He is a testament to his commitment to fatherhood and a healthy marriage.

Inspiration Behind CoolxDad

Kevin Barnett believes in the power of community and mutual inspiration. CoolxDad brings together fathers from diverse backgrounds, including those in tech, art and culture, athletics, media and entertainment, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers. Their collective vision is to dismantle negative stereotypes surrounding fathers of color by motivating each other to be present and engaged with their families and communities.

Serving the Community

CoolxDad’s impact extends far and wide, with a diverse range of programs and events serving families in Houston, New York, and various other cities across the United States. Their Color Box holiday gift program served 500 families in 2022, while CoolxRuns, a fitness and mental wellness initiative, boasts an active membership of approximately 100 individuals. Furthermore, the organization has hosted financial success and mental wellness seminars, impacting more than 80 men, and organized the CoolxDad Fathers & Sons Basketball Clinic, engaging 80 children in 2022. The organization’s comprehensive approach touches lives in profound ways.

The BANF Grant Experience and Impact

CoolxDad’s journey was enriched by the support of the BIPOC Artists Network Fund (BANF). They discovered the grant opportunity through an announcement by the organization. Applying for the grant allowed CoolxDad to reflect on its mission and role in Houston, primarily through initiatives like CoolxHistory and Celebration of Fatherhood. The approval of the grant brought immense joy and validation, as it signified the community’s support and belief in CoolxDad’s mission.

The grant funds supported CoolxDad’s Celebration of Fatherhood and CoolxHistory programming. These initiatives celebrate the achievements of people of color during Black History Month and Father’s Day, and the Born a Star Festival is a testament to their success in bringing the community together. Additionally, the funds supported the “Living Room Conversations” interview series, benefiting many local artists and creatives.

Kevin believes that grants such as the one from BANF are a lifeline for many communities. It enables organizations like CoolxDad to extend support to others, creating a cascading effect of empowerment and change.

 

Future Initiatives

CoolxDad has a promising future with plans for a 5K FunxRun, Sunday Suppers, in-school mentorship programs, and expanding their Color Box holiday gift drive. They aim to involve more fathers in their mission and work towards establishing a physical headquarters in Houston.

CoolxDad’s journey is a testament to the power of community, inspiration, and dedication. As they continue to empower fathers of color and celebrate their achievements, they light the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Join CoolxDad in their mission to create a conscious community of fathers. Connect with them on social through @Coolxdad.