THRIVING Melanin Family Magazine September 2018 | Page 16

REAL DADS READ Real Dads Read (RDR) is aimed at The program has three implementation elementary and middle school aged targets, with the initial focus in Atlanta, children (K-8) and their fathers/male but set to expand nationwide caregivers with the goals of 1) encouraging children to develop a love 1. Creation of learning centers/small of reading, 2) improving children’s libraries in barbershops; literacy skills and educational outcomes, and 3) strengthening bonds 2. Creation of school-based learning between fathers/caregivers and their centers/small libraries and community children. groups that meet once a month for reading activities; and Real Dads Read is a two-generation approach to engaging and improving 3. Creation of a social media platform outcomes for both men and the to impact the current narrative around children for which they are Black fathers. responsible.  READ