40 Southwood dads from Shreveport, Louisiana showed up in October after gang fights led to 23 students being arrested for fighting. Since then, things have been much better. There has only been one fight and it happened outside of the dad’s watch in a classroom.

The group of Southwood fathers are now going through requests from over 100 schools and colleges across the country that want the program in their schools. Craig Lee, a city council candidate, is helping the group to expand to across the country.

“I’m one of those guys that when I jump on board on something, I’m all the way in. Right now, I need to be all the way in on Dads on Duty,” Michael La’Fitte told CBS after Will Smith, Congressman Josh Hawley of Missouri, Ray Ankrum, and school officials noticed how the dads being at the school has prevented violence and made the school better for the children.

“Our boots have not left,”  La’Fitte said.

Minding Hearts is building advocacy and peer support groups in each state. The groups are created to raise awareness, educate, and advocate for those that might not otherwise be heard. We are here for encouragement, education, and support. We cannot give legal advice, but we can try and direct you in the right direction with your case. Links to legal services are listed with their states. Please share and let’s grow our groups. We are here to support families and develop resources that maintain family integrity. We look forward to your support. If you would rather become active by donating, then visit the donation page.