Still Needed: A Few Good Men — To Read To Children

I had a dream. Not mine alone. But a dream that as fathers, as men, we could make a difference reading to children at one school then use…

Kevin Callahan, pictured above, is among a faithful group of men who have been reading to schoolchildren at the Matteson Elementary School in Matteson, Illinois, since fall 2015. Now in its second year, the reading program seeks men to serve as readers and mentors.

I had a dream. Not mine alone. But a dream that as fathers, as men, we could make a difference reading to children at one school then use our success as a model for what men can do at schools in every neighborhood across the Chicago area where poor children need the presence of good men. To read. To serve as role models.

We have had success, a faithful core of men on Thursdays for the reading program at Matteson Elementary School. Mostly men coming from outside the community — from near and far, white and black.

But honestly, with 350 students at the school and the addition of 120 new kindergartners, we are in dire need of more men. I know you’re out there. We need you. I have faith that you’ll come through.

There is a direct correlation between illiteracy and incarceration. Our sons and daughters, at least 6 out of 10 who live without their biological fathers, need us to partner with their schools. More than symbolism, our presence says we care. That we understand that it is not sports but studies, books not basketballs or footballs or baseballs that will light the path to their future.

I will not say how many local fathers have shown up in the 1½ years . The numbers have been abysmal. I understand that as men we are busy with work and myriad other tasks. But our children need you. Not just your child, but others for whom you might be the only positive male role model they see.

Brothers, the cavalry isn’t coming. We can be the change we want to see. We can build a better community, a stronger village., create a better time, a better place, a better people

Even if you can come even just ONE Thursday for a 45-minute commitment, it can have a world of impact. We’d love to have you. We need you now. More then ever.

This isn’t John Fountain’s program. It’s not about me. Not about you.

STILL NEEDED: A Few Good Men.

Please join us. Bring a valid state ID.

When & Where:

7:45–8:30 a.m. Thursdays

Matteson Elementary School

Principal Gregory Huelsman

Address: 21245 Main St,

Matteson, IL 60443

Phone:(708) 748–0480

Men Answering the Call; Making A Difference
pdate on "Father's Day Thursdays" at Matteson Elementary School: About 30 men showed up-from far and near this week…www.author.johnwfountain.com