Celebrating Father's Day: The Irreplaceable Role of Dads
Have you ever stopped to think about the unique impact
a father has in a child's life? With Father's Day just around the corner, we take a moment to think about the many ways dads shape their families—sometimes in the smallest, most quiet moments. Whether it's a word of encouragement, a steady presence through tough times, or simply a shared laugh, fathers play a role that is truly irreplaceable.
For some, Father's Day is a joyful celebration. For others, it may be a
day of remembrance, heartache, or even longing. No matter your story, we hope you find comfort and hope in knowing that fatherhood—biological or adoptive—is a calling filled with meaning. If you know a dad who could use an encouraging word this week, reach out and let him know he's appreciated. If you are a dad, thank you for all the ways you love, guide, and provide. Your influence matters more than you may ever realize.
Interview with a Hope First Client Advocate: Collin H.
In honor of Father's Day, we interviewed Collin, who is one of our male advocates here at Hope First. We are so thankful for the time he dedicates and his willingness to walk this journey with us, and the people we are here to serve. We know that our volunteers give their additional time and
energy, and we do not take it for granted! Collin has a wife and two daughters. But we will let him tell you more in his own words. Enjoy this Father's Day "get to know a Dad" interview!
1. When did you start volunteering at Hope First? I started in mid to late 2024.
2. What made you decide to reach out to Hope First to be on the volunteer team? My wife and I have, for a while, had it on our hearts to be part of a place that supports families through challenging times. My own personal story involves challenges that my family had many years ago that really directed me toward this type of work.
3. What do you do in your volunteer role? My role is to serve and support men who are interested in growing. Some of the challenges I have seen are: 1. Parenting, as many of us know this is one of the ultimate challenges. 2. Conflict resolution - in any relationship conflict will arise, the tools to handle this conflict in a productive way is
critical.
4. What is your background in? My professional training is in industrial and organizational psychology (the science of people at work). Most of my career has been in measuring human performance in a professional setting. Specifically I manage a team that develops and deploys
training for a professional services organization. I also have had a second career in the fire service, working as a firefighter and EMT for over 16 years. I have toned that back a bit now and work ski patrol during the winters here in Colorado.
5. Would you like to tell us a little bit about your
family? Yes! My wife of 11 years and I met while I was in graduate school. My men's bible study cooked dinner (parmesan chicken) for her women's bible study. My wife and I have two girls who are 6 and 8 and quite hilarious.
6. What do you like to do for fun when you have free time? I
like to go fast! Dirt bikes and street motorcycles are something I really enjoy. I also spend time cycling in the summers and many ski days on the slopes in the winter. Outside of those hobbies I spend a lot of time with my kids at the park.
7. What is something you have personally learned/gained as you
work with clients here in the center? The training of how to be a coach was very valuable. I happened to be in similar leadership training through work and found great value in being able to ask people the right questions to get them to make informed choices that are their own.
8. What is your hope for
the future of Hope First? Something you are excited for? I am excited for God to bring people closer to him through this center. I would love to see more and more husbands serve and love their wives and families in the way Christ loves the church. It is easy for us to say "I would jump in font of a bullet for my wife and kids", it's much harder to apologize to our wives or children when we have been harsh or unloving toward them.
9. What would you say to people considering volunteering or working at Hope First? I would say, "If not you, then who?" You are a sinner and haven't been a perfect husband or father? Perfect! That is what men need, another man who has failed many times, but will still get up and pursue God and love his family despite
failing so many times
10. What is some advice you would give fathers? Whether a soon to be father, or one that's in the thick of the parenting years? Well being a father in the thick of it, my advice to myself is "stop playing on your phone". Spend more time with the kids and live with your wife in an
understanding way (and let her win silly disagreements).
Thank you Collin for sharing with us! And for all you do here at Hope First!
Scripture reminds us of the importance of fathers and their example: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has
compassion on those who fear him." (Psalm 103:13) If this season of fatherhood is difficult for you, please know that you are not alone. We are here to walk alongside you, to offer support, and to remind you of your value.
We hope you all have a wonderful Father's Day weekend!
