A Father’s Legacy: Uplifting Men, Rebuilding Brotherhood in Jackson

Jackson, MI – June 14, 2025

On a breezy Saturday afternoon, families across Jackson gathered at 502 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive to honor the spirit and strength of fatherhood. Hosted by Jackson Strength Network and the League of Extraordinary Fathers, the “A Father’s Legacy” event delivered more than just raffles and hot dogs, it served up healing, hope, and homegrown community support.

At the heart of the celebration was a bold message: No Man Left Behind.

From mobile gaming trucks to powerful testimony from guest speakers, the event brought together dads of all walks of life; justice-impacted fathers, veterans, young dads, and those on their journey to reconnect with family and purpose. Each activity was rooted in Jackson Strength’s mission: to offer brotherhood, resources, and space for men to rise without judgment or shame.

“Our goal is to show men that they are not alone,” said Justin Counts, founder of Jackson Strength Network and a leader in reentry and veteran support. “If one of us needs a hand over the fence, we lift. If you need to stand on our backs to rise—we don’t hesitate.”

The event included free raffles every 15 minutes, with over 40 prizes gifted to local fathers. At 2:30 PM, beloved characters Sonic the Hedgehog and Gracie brought extra joy for the kids, while organizations like the Southside Business Chronicle set up tents to share news, promote entrepreneurship, and uplift Black business voices.

Local leaders and community partners were also in attendance, including sleep apnea advocate Greatness Brown and Yanice Jackson, Publisher of The Chronicle News and Executive Director of The Community Catalyst. “Events like this are the blueprint,” she said. “They don’t just celebrate fathers, they create safe spaces for men to heal, to grow, and to be seen in their fullness.”

There were discussions about mental health, parenting, and second chances, A Father’s Legacy stood as more than a community event. It was a reminder that manhood—especially Black manhood—deserves compassion, celebration, and support.

Because when one rises, we all rise. No man left behind.