Why Good Fathers Are Key to Positive Childhood Experiences in Memphis
By Antonio T. Harvey, Co-Founder of FathersFirst Memphis
Growing up in Memphis isn’t always easy. Our city, rich with soul and struggle, faces challenges that many communities know all too well poverty, crime, broken families, and systemic barriers that weigh heavily on the backs of our children. But in the midst of these realities lies a powerful truth: good fathers can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
As one of the founders of FathersFirst Memphis, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact of involved, loving, and responsible fathers. I’m also a father myself to two incredible children, Nia and Noah Harvey. They are the heartbeat behind my mission. When I look into their eyes, I see the future of Memphis. I see the dreams that need protecting, the joy that needs nurturing, and the confidence that only comes when a child feels secure and deeply loved.
The Memphis Fatherhood Crisis
Too many children in Memphis are growing up without active fathers in their lives. According to recent studies, more than half of African American children in our city live in single-parent homes. The absence of a father often contributes to negative outcomes, lower academic achievement, higher risk of involvement in crime, emotional and behavioral challenges, and cycles of poverty. As a father, I wanted to shield Nia and Noah from these grim realities.
But here’s the good news: when fathers show up, everything changes. Our presence is the power.
What Positive Fatherhood Looks Like
A good father isn’t perfect, he’s present. He listens. He affirms. He disciplines with love. He shows his children what strength wrapped in compassion looks like. Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) like feeling safe at home, having someone to confide in, and being encouraged to reach for your dreams are all directly linked to father involvement.
For Nia, that means me cheering her on at every cheerleader event, helping her work through tough questions about life, and making sure she knows that her voice matters. For Noah, it’s our Saturday morning breakfasts, teaching him how to be a young man of integrity, and being there when the world feels too big to handle alone.
These are not just “nice to haves.” These are the building blocks of resilience, confidence, and emotional health.
FathersFirst Memphis: Rebuilding the Foundation
That’s why FathersFirst Memphis exists—to empower, educate, and equip fathers to show up for their children, their families, and their communities. We believe that strong fathers raise strong children, and strong children build strong neighborhoods.
Through mentoring, parenting classes, support groups, and community partnerships, we’re creating a citywide movement where fatherhood is honored and restored.
A Call to Action
If you’re a father in Memphis—know this: your presence matters more than you may ever realize. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be present. Your child doesn’t need a superhero. They need you.
And if you're someone who believes in the future of this city, join us. Whether you’re a mentor, a donor, or a neighbor—we need you in this fight for our families.
Because when fathers lead with love, Memphis heals. One child, one home, one neighborhood at a time.
Nia and Noah are counting on us. And so are thousands of other children in Memphis.
Antonio T. Harvey
CEO and Co-Founder
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