Latest news with #FatherhoodConference
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Northwest Florida Health Network empowers fathers at 2025 Fatherhood Conference
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Fathers are stepping up to be more present in their children's lives. The Northwest Florida Health Network is designed to empower fathers at the Fatherhood Conference. The program helps incarcerated fathers reconnect with their children. The goal is to help fathers become more confident in their parenting. Participants could grab a passport card and visit different vendors with resources for dads. South Walton Turtle Watch teaches youth about sea turtle care They could also hear personal stories from event speakers, motivating them to make a change. 'I grew up in a broken home with violence and abuse. And I stopped that, what I call a generational curse. I stopped it, created a new way. And yet in all my years working with men who grew up in broken homes, they felt they were doomed to repeat the past. And the reality is, you're not if you make choices today that turn their lives around, not just for your sake, for your kids, for your family, and for the next two generations of generations,' RelateWell Institute Director Richard Marks said. 'There's about 24 million children across the country that do not have a father in their life. And when that is missing, that family unit breaks down. A lot of bad things happen. Education outcomes are worse. Health outcomes are worse. And also, we know that there's a higher incidence of violence and incarceration when there's not that father figure in their lives,' Northwest Florida Health Network CEO Mike Watkins said. There were also counselors who assisted fathers in overcoming substance use and mental health challenges. Event organizers know how important it is for children to have a father in their lives. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Construction progresses for Panama City Garden Club project
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) – For decades, members of the Panama City Garden Club have worked hard to beautify the community. Recently, city officials have focused on beautifying the garden club's home. Crews are close to completing the rebuild at the garden club facility and city officials are proud of the community partners that have helped make the project a success. Walton County to break ground on Driftwood Road 'Any time that you have local businesses that are willing to give back to the community, I think the community deserves to know that,' said Parks, Culture and Recreation Director Keith Mefford. The Panama City Garden Club is a prime example of partnership turned into progress. 'This is one of my favorite projects, me, and one of the other team members of the city have kind of taken charge of. It's great that you call it my baby because I, do, have really a lot of value and buy-in in this building,' Mefford continued. Mefford said community use of the space has already been booming, with several recent additions, like a disc golf course, newly planted trees, walking paths and more. But the completion of this clubhouse will cement the revival for the Panama City Garden Club and for the public as a whole. 'A whole new energy, I think. So they're really excited. We talk weekly, but as far as this location, I think it'll be a great gathering place for receptions, birthday parties and weddings in the park. And we got our trails back in place, we have exercise equipment,' Mefford added. NWF Health Network announces first annual Fatherhood Conference The space will hold around 175 people, and renting out the space will eventually create revenue for the city. Mefford estimated the city has saved somewhere between $750,000 and $1 million on the project, thanks to businesses donating design plans, special rates or volunteering their time. Mefford said construction on the space should be wrapped up sometime in July. The garden club is looking for new members. They'll also need help moving into their completed clubhouse. To learn more about one of the oldest organizations in Panama City, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
NWF Health Network announces first annual Fatherhood Conference
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) – The NWF Health Network is hosting the first-ever Fatherhood Conference on Wednesday, June 11. According to a news release, the event will take place at FSU Panama City on 4750 Collegiate Drive from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The conference aims to empower fathers in the Panama City community by providing them with tools, resources and support. Volunteer for a cause with Pineapple Willy's Summer Beach Cleanup Officials look to foster a sense of community among fathers, advocates and professionals, and to encourage those in attendance to become advocates for fatherhood and family stability. To learn more about NWF Health Network's Fatherhood Initiative, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
